(11/29/2018) Built Upon The Spirit

Today, reply is on the sacred operations, divine substance, and immutable truths—the rock—that serve as foundation for the new creation by Jesus Christ that is a living community to contain and display ongoing relationship with divinity through his imparted Spirit. In the same way the Creator gave form to mankind by fashioning Adam from the dust of the earth, the Holy Spirit is fashioning the components, members and process that appear as the church of Jesus Christ. By grace through faith, the testimony granted sinners who apprehend testament in the blood of Jesus is that activity of mind (e.g., dreaming, imagining, recall, thinking); senses of the flesh (e.g., hearing, seeing, smelling, tasting, touching), and apostles such as Peter, James, John and Thomas “hath not revealed it unto me”. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality, who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE” (Level 1 with no points showing, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:

Is Peter the rock on which Jesus' Church is built upon (Matthew 16:17-18)?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth: with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins. (Isaiah 11: 1-5, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Mystery of GODhead (10/21/2018); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); Christ Rejected By Pharisees? (06/17/2018); In Order To Understand (12/01/2017); Built Upon the Rock (12/23/2016); Christ The Solid Rock? (08/07/2016); Sadducees and The Cross? (03/13/2016); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); My Brother’s Keeper (04/05/2013)

“GRANNY NORINE”, the Spirit within me identifies Jesus and the Holy Spirit as the Rock. The Incarnation of divinity using flesh as Jesus Christ did not introduce a platform for covenant relationship with divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) that was new, so much as a platform to replace and advance things that had become obscured by custom, legalism, and tradition throughout Israel, and among the Jews of the Temple community. Where Moses left a legacy of the “law and the prophets,” practice by the Pharisees and Sadducees emphasized the observance of feasts, offerings and sacrifices, and centered upon the law without the prophets. While none denied the active presence of GOD (we say, the Shekinah) within the Sanctuary, and the High Priest continued to enter the Most Holy place on the annual day of atonement, there was no unanimous acceptance that the operations of GOD, the promises of GOD, and the record established through the prophets should be uppermost in acknowledgment, praise, and worship. Jesus would minister in Jerusalem as a divine High Priest after the order of Melchizedek, yet, would be recognized and responded to only by those responding to operations from the same Holy Spirit that resided within the sacred spokesperson commanded to leave the temple priesthood, John the Baptist. How readest thou? The following is the pivotal statement that declares the character, process, and substance of the new creation church: Matthew 16: 17, King James Version (KJV): 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. Other verses that appear must be received and viewed using this light; for example:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 3: 11, King James Version (KJV): 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

(2.) Luke 6: 47-49, : 47 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: 48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. 49 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.

(3.) John 3: 6-7, KJV: 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

(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.

Enough said.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/04/2017) The Spirit and Prophecy

Today, focus is on the ministry of Jesus Christ to restore covenant law, prophecy, and the Holy Spirit.  The message of Christ was by no means contempt, disobedience, leniency, or slackness in acknowledging and obeying sacred law.  In addition to earthly elements recognizable as customs, discipline, law, and traditions, heavenly gifts must be received for there to be uninterrupted relationship with the Creator.  Thus, the end of mortality (i.e., death) through godliness, grace, righteousness, and spirit substance are proclaimed to be the actual foundation and platform for eternal life.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Bruce” (Level 7 with 105,495 points, a member since August 12, 2007) posted the following:

Was an important part of Jesus' message not be scrupulous, i.e., not to worry about actions that do not offend God?

Examples might include drinking alcohol in moderation, eating meat (including pork), and doing good work on the Sabbath.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:  Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.  John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me:  for he was before me.  And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.  For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.  No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.  (John 1:  11-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  His Birth Signals Rebirth (01/03/2017); The Firstborn of GOD (01/02/2017); The Divine Christmas Gifts? (12/26/2016); Righteousness Through Jesus Christ? (12/15/2016); Different Form, Same Relationship? (11/20/2016); The Devices for Prophecy (06/10/2016); The Forms of Prophecy? (04/26/2016); Filled With The Cross? (04/17/2016)

“Bruce”, more than bringing something never before seen, Jesus emphasized things that were being neglected among the covenant people of GOD.  Foremost were faith, promise, prophecy and the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  Multiple streams of sacred truth would be unified through the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Many mature Christian believers now find it helpful to understand that the essential message of Jesus illuminated the gifts and oracles for created beings and living creatures that already had been provided as an inheritance for all the offspring of Adam.  Jesus would reveal (i.e., make knowable, known, visible) the person and active presence of GOD the Father within the fullness of divinity (we say, the GODhead) to be a “spirit” who must be known through means that go beyond divine law and includes atonement, sacred events (we say, miracles), forgiveness, Incarnation, final judgment, mercy, promise, prophecy, redemption, , salvation and sanctification.  Just as the finite human tools of intellect, philosophy, politics and science can not eliminate sin, secular knowledge, carnal reason, material, and social means had repeatedly failed and been found insufficient to maintain relationship of Creator and created.  Blessing (we say, free gifts) from divinity must operate within the living as life essence (i.e., breath, spirit, word) from the makeup of Deity, and be the internal origin for their own awareness and self-will.  Sinners must be reborn and supplied with inseparable spirit content such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Malachi was the last prophet to appear before John the Baptist, more than 400 years before the birth of Jesus.  The Sadducees, who insisted upon his crucifixion (and were represented in the High Priest of the Lord’s day), also opposed doctrine and teaching of angels, resurrection from the dead, and spirits.  Jesus did not propose denial and rejection of the law so much as grasping its eternal purpose and living spirit.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  2nd Peter 1:  2-4, King James Version (KJV):  2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,  3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:  4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises:  that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

(2.)  Romans 3:  1-2, KJV:  1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision?  2 Much every way:  chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

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

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  14-18, 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.  18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/23/2016) Built Upon the Rock

Today, focus is on the Son of GOD as the groundwork and platform of Creation, judgment, revelation, and salvation.  Until the creation of Adam, the Word existed as unseen, and known through faith, law, praise, proclamation, promise, and prophecy.  The Son of the Highest would appear upon the earth and use finite materials such as  blood, human form, flesh, and water.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Trilobiteme” (Level 3 with 2,346 points, a member since September 29, 2011) posted the following:

God loves faith and blessed are those who believe and never seen but God hides secrets and signs in the Bible to prove He is God?

Jesus Christ is Lord

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God:  because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  Hereby know ye the Spirit of God:  Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:  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.  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.  They are of the world:  therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.  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.  (1st John 4:  1-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Appearances Using Form? (12/20/2016); Different Form, Same Relationship? (11/20/2016); Birth, Self-will and Sin? (11/13/2016); The Need for Incarnation? (09/29/2016); Christ The Solid Rock? (08/07/2016); Son of Adam and of GOD? (06/16/2014); Focus of Believers? (06/17/2014)

“Trilobiteme”, the works of GOD to establish and maintain Creation have been grounded upon a foundation that can be known and seen.  All sacred knowledge, fellowship, practice, and process have been built up rooted in the things of GOD through Jesus Christ.  Because the fullness of the GODhead will always be oneness without sameness, and will manifest spirit that is comprehensive, diffuse and invisible (yet not abstract, impersonal, and indifferent), divinity must use devices that are carnal, material, and social to be in meaningful relationships with created beings and living creatures.  The living are to be instruments and vessels containing and expressing the character, nature, and substance of GOD.  Inseparable aspects of divine makeup must be imparted to indwell the living that include faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The Creator appeared on the earth in the person of Jesus Christ, and himself became the necessary platform and stable foundation of soil, rather than dust or sand.  In this sense, divinity could not avoid coming to us as a baby miraculously born to a virgin.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 12:  5, King James Version (KJV):  5 But unto the place which the LORD your God shall choose out of all your tribes to put his name there, even unto his habitation shall ye seek, and thither thou shalt come:

(2.)  1st Corinthians 3:  11, KJV:  11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

(3.)  Luke 2:  8-14, KJV:  8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.  9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them:  and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them,  10 Fear not:  for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.  13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,  14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

(4.)  Matthew 7:  24-27, KJV:  24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:  25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not:  for it was founded upon a rock.  26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:  27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell:  and great was the fall of it.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Ephesians 2:  13-22, KJV:  13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.  14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;  15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;  16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:  17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.  18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.  19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;  20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;  21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:  22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/18/2016) Benefiting From Your Childhood?

 

Today, focus is on making the transition to adult Christian belief through study of the Bible.  Agreeing with the Scripture from Solomon (Ecclesiastes 11:  9-10, King James Version (KJV):  9 Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes:  but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.  10 Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy flesh:  for childhood and youth are vanity.), many condemn childhood as a period that does not bear spiritual fruit, and is vain (i.e., lacks spirit substance from GOD).  Rather than deny and despise the life lessons from childhood, born again believers are encouraged to receive added benefit from their own past by “seeing with new eyes.”  The foundation from childhood should include some sacred knowledge, however, more than this there also will have been charity (unselfish love), gentleness, gratitude, faith, humility, patience, resilience, respect, and trust.  Christ who presents the image of immortal, immutable, unchanging divinity has been given as the model for created beings and living creatures to be in personal relationship with the Father.  Diversity, inconsistency, and the many differences among their levels of achievement and growth make it that believers apart from Christ are not sufficient as standards for one another.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “JohnnyBravo” (Level 2 with 600 points, a member since November 17, 2010) posted the following:

 

How do I avoid letting the childhood indoctrination creep on back as I attempt to read the bible cover to cover?

I'm trying to end this chapter of my life. I need to read the bible through from beginning to end to give myself closure.

Update: I notice as I read Genesis that I'm slipping back into old Christian ways of reading the bible. I start to make excuses for why God does what he does, etc. It happens automatically.

 

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

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Choice, Duty, and Obligation? (11/17/2016); Birth, Self-will and Sin? (11/13/2016); Unguarded Chocolates? (11/07/2013); Jesus Rose? (11/08/2013); How Children Learn (11/09/2013); Issues for Children’s Church (04/06/2013); Outgrowing Childhood Prayers? (04/07/2013); Confessing Only to GOD? (04/08/2013)

 

“JohnnyBravo”, in Christ there is only one truth for both young and old, child and elder, that may be presented in multiple ways to fit their level of growth and maturity.  When Moses assembled the people at Sinai to hear GOD proclaim his law for covenant, even babes in arms and the sucking child were called.  Adult Christian believers ought not abandon their earliest lessons; they are to build upon them, and continue to grow acknowledging their foundation from GOD.  The key to having a fresh experience of the ancient truths recorded for us in the holy writings is to acquire during our own times a fresh endowment of spirit content from the makeup of GOD.  Finite tools of carnal reason, intellect, logic, and science may not be relied on.  Sinners who become “born again” will receive deposits of divine Spirit through baptism as well as by gathering in fellowship with other, more mature believers (church attendance); praise, prayer, and sacred practice (we say, observing sacraments); private study of the Scriptures; and unselfish service to benefit others.  Even as born-again believers, members of the church must “grow up again” and encounter the “growing pains” of life experience before they can be fully mature.  All believers are to gradually become ripe for harvest at the coming of Jesus, and display the same inseparable aspects of divinity that appeared within Jesus Christ upon the earth.  Included are faith, gratitude, holiness, joy, longsuffering, meekness, eternal purpose, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again how some of this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 8:  5-9, King James Version (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.

(2.)  Romans 12:  1-3, KJV:  1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.  2 And be not conformed to this world:  but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.  3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

(3.)  1st Peter 3:  4, KJV:  4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

(4.)  1st Corinthians 13:  8-13, KJV:  8 Charity never faileth:   but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.  9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.  10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.  11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:  but when I became a man, I put away childish things.  12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face:  now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.  13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Romans 8:  25-28, KJV:  25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.  26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities:  for we know not what we should pray for as we ought:  but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.  27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.  28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX Washington, DC

(08/07/2016) Christ The Solid Rock?

Today, Scripture points are shared on holy altars, Christ as a cornerstone, and the Lord as a stone of judgment.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Muhammad Javed” (Level 5 with 5,007 points, a member since April 25, 2013) posted the following:

Religiously, What was the stone Jesus was referring to, in Mathew 2 1:42~44?

The stone that builders rejected, has become the cornerstone. The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. That I tell you that kingdom of God will be taken away from you and would be given to a people who will produce its fruits, He who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces and on whom it falls it will be crushed!
Is Islam this stone?
If not why?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  O that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end!  How should one chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight, except their Rock had sold them, and the LORD had shut them up?  For their rock is not as our Rock, even our enemies themselves being judges.  For their vine is of the vine of Sodom, and of the fields of Gomorrah:  their grapes are grapes of gall, their clusters are bitter:  Their wine is the poison of dragons, and the cruel venom of asps.  Is not this laid up in store with me, and sealed up among my treasures?  To me belongeth vengeance and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time:  for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.  For the Lord shall judge his people, and repent himself for his servants, when he seeth that their power is gone, and there is none shut up, or left.  And he shall say, Where are their gods, their rock in whom they trusted,  Which did eat the fat of their sacrifices, and drank the wine of their drink offerings? let them rise up and help you, and be your protection.  See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me:  I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal:  neither is there any that can deliver out of my hand.  For I lift up my hand to heaven, and say, I live for ever.  If I whet my glittering sword, and mine hand take hold on judgment; I will render vengeance to mine enemies, and will reward them that hate me.  (Deuteronomy 32:  29-41, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Guided By Divine Truth (06/20/2016); Jesus Given A Divine Ministry? (08/18/2015); The Holy Spirit and Unity? (08/13/2015); A Pillar and Ground? (04/13/2014); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); My Brother’s Keeper (04/05/2013); The Need to Purify Heaven (01/17/2013)

“Muhammad Javed”, in the holy writings, “a rock” is used as an altar, a holy table, and the point of contact between heaven and earth.  Judgment is portrayed, for holy fire must consume the offerings and sacrifices placed upon the altar, destroying all defilement, profanity and uncleanness while lifting and releasing all glory, honor, petition, praise, and thanksgiving.  Specific doctrines and truths are spoken of as “a rock,” to indicate they express divinity who is immutable and unchanging.  Among mature Christian believers, the “rock” and foundation whereon the existence of mankind has been built must be understood as “spirit” that first appears displaying authority, “person”, power, “presence”, purpose, and volition (self-will).  The character, nature, and process for generating created beings and living creatures is the platform of divine existence itself, rather than a base that is carnal, material, or social.  This allows believers to grasp that (1) the living are made “in the image” of GOD who is spirit; (2) are endowed with spirit substance that enables communication, exchange, and interaction with divinity in ongoing relationships; and (3) believers must experience permanent changes and gradual growth through operations of divine law, prophecy, revelation, and transformation in the presence of GOD in order to exist as eternal companions to divinity.  Through revelation, the Creator becomes knowable, known, and “visible” to the Created.  Thus, Jesus Christ, a physical appearing of divinity, is embraced as an aspect of the complete revelation (we say, an embodiment, an Incarnation) of Deity as is the imparted, indwelling Spirit (also called, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  Believers are to serve as vessels of the inseparable aspects that are the makeup of GOD such as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, humility, joy, kindness, meekness, righteousness, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider how some of this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  1st Samuel 2:  2-3, King James Version (KJV):  2 There is none holy as the LORD:  for there is none beside thee:  neither is there any rock like our God.  3 Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth:  for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.

(2.)  Psalms 95:  1-6, KJV:  1 O come, let us sing unto the LORD:  let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.  2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.  3 For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods.  4 In his hand are the deep places of the earth:  the strength of the hills is his also.  5 The sea is his, and he made it:  and his hands formed the dry land.  6 O come, let us worship and bow down:  let us kneel before the LORD our maker.

(3.)  Colossians 1:  15-20, KJV:  15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

(4.)  Romans 1:  18-21, KJV:  18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;  19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:  21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

(5.)  Matthew 16:  13-18, KJV:  13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?  14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist:  some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.  15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?  16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.  17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona:  for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.  18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (6.)  Matthew 7:  24-27, KJV:  24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:  25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not:  for it was founded upon a rock.  26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:  27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell:  and great was the fall of it.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/13/2014) A Pillar and Ground?

Language describing aspects of the church founded by Jesus Christ is our focus, today.  The “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “The Holy Shroud of Turin” (Level 4 with 4,484 points, a member since June 19, 2010) posted the following:


Why does Paul say the Church is the "pillar and foundation of truth"? 

St. Paul, in 1 Tim 3:15

1 Timothy, Chapter 3

St. Paul Writes:

I am writing you about these matters, although I hope to visit you soon.

"But if I should be delayed, you should know how to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of truth.Undeniably great is the mystery of devotion, Who was manifested in the flesh,vindicated in the spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed to the Gentiles,
believed in throughout the world and taken up in glory!"


Paul seems to reference a church as the pillar and foundation of truth before the Bible was written


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For we are labourers together with God:  ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.  According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon.  But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.  For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.  Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;  Every man’s work shall be made manifest:  for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.  If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.  If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss:  but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.  Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?  If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.  (1st Corinthians 3:  9-17, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Storm-battered City? (03/29/2014); Holy Ground (03/30/2014); The Temple Mount (03/31/2014); Going It Alone? (12/16/2013); On Being Good Stewards (12/17/2013); When GOD Controls? (04/22/2013); Faith, Language and Mystery” (04/11/2013); GOD Knows Tomorrow? (04/12/2013); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); My Brother’s Keeper (04/05/2013); Without The Noise of Battle (12/25/2012)



“The Holy Shroud of Turin”, while intellect and knowledge will never take the place of being born again from GOD, here are some points on Christian belief to consider that have helped many avoid blasphemy, irreverence, and spiritual confusion:

(1.)  Pillars are columns or posts that stand straight up from the flooring, and may be seated upon the foundation within massive buildings that are designed to show a nation or people have importance, permanence, and power.  As such, pillars are found only in palaces, judgment halls, and temples.

(2.)  The foundation of any building is the platform and surface whereupon the entire upper structure must rest.  As a result, following the many shifts through pressure and distributions of the soil that lower the building’s height over time (we say, settling), the ground is the final, and unchanging level a building will continue to be upon so long as it may stand.

There is a lot more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  The church founded through Jesus Christ serves as an embodiment of divinity, and a vessel containing sacred matter.  More than simply data, doctrines, teachings, and information, the church provides mystery (i.e., knowledge through life experience that is only for those initiated), and truth as the active presence of divinity within ones own awareness and self-will.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to the measure of divine faith that resides in you.


What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?  For ye are bought with a price:  therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.  (1st Corinthians 6:  19-20, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/22/2013) When GOD Controls?

      A believer’s place within Divine Person, “I AM” as the name of GOD, and getting free of spiritual confusion are topics, today. Also, there is more on kindness to Mary. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Republican catholic” (Level 1 with 0 points, a member since March 14, 2012) posted the following:

I am god so can you!?

If i let god into my heart does that mean i am god? In theory i could let god in me and control myself. If i do anything under the influence i can just blame it on him right? Who ARE YOU TO QUESTION GOD?

Additional Details

I mean let him control me.

i like to bend spoons when god controls me sometimes i do others thing some ppl hate but its gods choice they should respect that and thank me for giving them a chance to be close to god

THE BATTLE AXE: A Kindness to Mary? (04/21/2013)—(5.) In the same way respect to Jesus does not diminish or reduce the glory and honor to Almighty GOD and the Holy Spirit, and continues a believer’s acknowledgment of the authority and sovereign majesty of the Father, respect to Mary as the mother of Jesus does not conflict with or undermine ones faith in Christ, and takes nothing away from the glory of the GODhead. Typically, believers do not have complete and correct knowledge of sacred truth embracing Mary until they have made careful and detailed study. There are many subtle connections that must harmonize among the doctrines, the Gospel, and other teachings that are put forth; however, they all stand upon a single foundation, Jesus as the One Sent. (6.) In the public forum, many share their faith, or gospel (good news) thinking that every opinion is acceptable. They are surprised to find that even faith and “good news” must pass muster, and are evaluated and ranked according to fixed judgments that have been developed over many years, and tested within many cultures. Saying this another way: No childish insults, underdeveloped thinking, spiritual confusion, or vain rant may pass as benefit to others, comfort, encouragement, help, humility, kindness, mature insight, love, prophecy, religious belief, righteousness, understanding, or godly wisdom. (7.) From before the birth of Jesus there have been those who accuse Mary of prostitution, and question the virgin birth in order to justify their belief that GOD has not been righteous in covenant, has not fulfilled prophecy, and has not appeared in flesh. There were those who attacked Jesus to his face with those very slanders, and so we count it as “ancient evil.” Like many today, they sought to participate in a conversation regarding divinity that would be grounded only in carnal, material and social truth without also considering what GOD would speak about himself, his sacred operations, and his own divine purposes. Neither the things that offend GOD, nor the things that please him can be known and recognized by those who lack the holy spirit of life from GOD that should reside in every created being and living creature. One of the most distinctive features of mature faith is a reluctance to attack others, and a continuing restraint in dealing with errors and thrusts from those who are still developing. Mistakenly regarded as acceptance and approval of sin, it is an appearance of the peace that passes understanding. See 1st Timothy 6: 3-8, King James Version. (8.) Mature Christian believers obey a discipline that goes a long way toward eliminating gossip, slander and unkindness: Say nothing about anyone, even to GOD, that you can not say to their face. Where what you say will not benefit those you speak about, let it remain unsaid; and, do not talk about others, talk to them.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. (John 17: 17-23, King James Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why Would GOD Worry About Us? (04/16/2013); How To Accept Bible Truth? (04/17/2013); About Preaching the Gospel (04/18/2013); Faith, Language and “Mystery” (04/11/2013); GOD Knows Tomorrow (04/12/2013); Evidence of the Unseen Spirit? (04/09/2013); A Guide to Salvation? (04/10/2013); Girdle 10: By The Breath (11/25/2011); Binder 7: The GODhead (10/04/2011)
    
     Here are some points to consider that many have found helpful when getting free of spiritual confusion, and the destructive habit of bending spoons:

(1.) The phrase “I AM” appears in the holy writings to suggest the enormous breadth, depth and impact of divine existence upon created beings and living creatures. As a holy name whereby GOD is known and spoken of in the earth, casual use of “I am” is avoided. This is particularly so where a believer embraces covenant relationship with GOD, and the divine commandments to prohibit taking or using the name of GOD in vain displays.

(2.) The profound truth that GOD inhabits Creation cannot be correctly applied and understood apart from the ongoing operations of Divine Person deposited within the living as their anointing, or endowment. GOD is a spirit, and must be acknowledged through spirit substance and truth. Included are faith, holiness, humility, hope, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom and wrath against sin.

(3.) Clear standards for recognition of divine presence, sacred purpose, and eternal judgment have all been “published” and made accessible in the earth along with an incarnate example of glory, obedience and reverence, Jesus Christ. Divine law, proclamations, promises, and prophesies have been given such that there should be “no question” when identifying what is, and what is not, holy intent. See 1st John 5: 17, 2nd John 1: 9-11 and 1st John 4: 6-8, KJV.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) When the word of GOD continues to have a controlling influence within a person’s awareness, Christ is said to abide within. The believer in Christ has place within the fullness of GOD, who is spirit; and GOD, who is spirit, has more than merely a place as co-existing. By eternal union of Creator, created, and universe, the living become expressions of Divine Person and instruments of divine will, rather than their own self-will and the self-will of others.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/12/2013) GOD Knows Tomorrow?

      Focus, today, is upon divine foreknowledge, omniscience, and predetermination for events in the lives of created beings and living creatures. Also, there is more on faith, language, and “mystery.” A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Isis” (Level 1 with 37 points, a member since August 3, 2011) posted the following:


Does god know what will happen tomorrow?


THE BATTLE AXE: Faith, Language, and “Mystery”? (04/11/2013)—The understanding of “mystery” as special knowledge appears frequently within the holy writings. Even so, the meaning of “mystery” is fluid, and changes as we broaden or narrow focus. For example, consider again 1st Corinthians 4: 1, 1st Corinthians 13: 1-3, Ephesians 3: 2-12 and Ephesians 5: 31-32, KJV. Mystery is an aspect of spiritual relationship, a working of divine power, the dispensation of grace, eternal purpose, prophecy, the duties and works of priesthood, and a specific truth addressing divine acts to simultaneously separate and join (woman/man and Christ/the church). Here are some other awkward, yet repeatedly useful ideas and ways of regarding the “mysteries” of GOD. (1.) When reciting the prayers of the Rosary, a believer is to contemplate selected events from the life of Jesus and his mother Mary, that are spoken of as “mysteries.” (2.) The mystery of the kingdom of GOD is a shared reality and truth that unfolds within ones awareness through their continued being and existence. The kingdom is not a place in time or space, nor is the kingdom “all in ones mind.” Participation in the mysteries of the kingdom may be instructed and taught using parables, because as open-ended object lessons, parables grant believers latitude to assign meaning based on their own divine content of faith and hope. See Matthew 13: 10-12 and Luke 8: 9-11, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 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: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 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: 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: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. (Ephesians 1: 3-12, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Life Given By Knowledge? (04/03/2013); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); Did Jesus Know? (12/22/2012); The True Miracle (12/23/2012); Sin Unknown? (10/10/2012); When Prayer Works (10/11/2012); Blessings, Curses and Woes (10/03/2012); After We Die? (10/04/2012); Why Is GOD Blamed? (08/23/2012); Fire Baptism (08/24/2012); GOD Does Exist (03/20/2012); On Being Careful (02/13/2012); A New Earth (02/14/2012); The Afterlife? (12/30/2010); Diet and Food? (12/31/2010)

    
     Isis, here are a few points I may share as a mature Christian believer that speak to GOD “knowing” the future. They will probably make most sense to you after you again show respect to GOD in prayer:

(1.) It is most correct to say that GOD is omniscient when speaking of divine purpose, sacred process, and the fulfillment of prophecy. The idea that GOD is aware of and recalls every detail for every event from the life of every created being or living creature is less correct. GOD is a spirit, and we must worship him (i.e., acknowledge him and know him) in spirit and in truth (John 4: 24, KJV). There are statements found in Scripture suggesting the breadth and depth of divine commitment to Creation as well the connection of many hidden truths for valuing human life. However, in no way should believers understand that GOD goes about filled with a “superfluity of naughtiness” and trivia. See Matthew 10: 29-31 and Luke 12: 6-7, KJV.

(2.) The foreknowledge of GOD seems to be made up of, and determined by the fixed decisions and set goals for Creation. In the same way a Washington Nationals fan may decide his son will be a baseball player (not a Capitol’s hockey star, or Wizard’s basketball great) long before the child is born or takes his first steps, may rush about buying bats, cleats, and gloves, and must then carefully maneuver his child to the sport as his own career goal; GOD has predetermined life, and eternal life for mankind. Believers are being moved through various preset sacraments, sacred experiences, and spiritual works to establish them in relationship with GOD and with one another. See Ephesians 2: 4-10 and 1st Peter 1: 13-21, KJV.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) GOD knows that self-will in created beings and living creatures may be dominated by sin. The full nature of humanity is expressed through both animal and divine aspects. (There must be an outworking of divine truth, a blossoming of holy seed, so to speak.) GOD has no final knowledge of ones deeds until after they have been manifest; and (so to speak) GOD does not go about with a catalog of errors and sins on his mind. Thus, the device of the books of life further come into view as vital for judgment and reward of mankind. See 1st Corinthians 3: 8-15 and Revelation 20: 11-13, KJV.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of faith you now contain.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/11/2013) Faith, Language and “Mystery”

Mysteries, truth, and the frustrations of language are in focus, today, as I respond to the writer at thoughts.com using ID “anonuman,” who commented upon A Guide to Salvation? (04/10/2013) with the following post:


Rather than “mysteries” or special knowledge it should be described as broader or deeper or more complex concepts. I am certainly grateful to God for the gift of faith that He has given me through my study of the Bible and the fruit of my seeking God and of God’s provision of my need.


THE BATTLE AXE: A Guide to Salvation? (04/10/2013)—(5.) Correctly understood, the holy writings are eternal, immutable, prophetic, and unchanging. The Scriptures are a tool whereby the Spirit of GOD operates both through and upon human consciousness in multiple dimensions. Included are aspects of time (e.g., past, present and future), space (e.g., earth, heaven, the universe), and personal investment through relationships (e.g., adoption, coworkers, family, friendship, marriage). In addition to content readers may describe as historical, the holy writings include divine law, principles, rules, standards and truths that are fixed and permanent features establishing the sphere of human existence, and the specific boundaries and constraints for covenant with GOD. (6.) Many of the accounts provided through the Scriptures serve as examples, illustrations and warnings that point to possible outcomes, persons and situations other than those directly described. (7.) The process of the Scriptures conforms to that for all divine revelation by use of narrative forms that promote understanding through discovery. Included are the uses of additive repetition, allegory, parables, proverbs, types, and understatement.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. (1st Corinthians 3: 8-15, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012); Attending Church? (11/12/2012); Dispatch 36: His Grace (09/15/2011)


Be encouraged! I sometimes make the mistake of speaking about sacred “mysteries” as though I mean to say “discrete, and fixed data.” What I really am trying to describe is a consciousness of divinity that exists within the “mind of GOD,” is itself divine and, when imparted to created beings and living creatures, transforms their awareness and continuing existence in “surprising” ways. The limits and obstacles of our language become apparent here. For we are speaking of something that is active, alive, has no boundary, cannot be measured, and is without dimension.

GOD is a spirit, and cannot be apprehended by mankind apart from operations by GOD upon what has been put forth as his Creation. Through the Bible, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ, mankind has been given tools for agreement and meaning whereby we may ground our thoughts and communication (we say “reference points”). However, such eternal processes as communion, fellowship and revelation are experienced as discovery, and the realization of ancient things that exist as if they were new creations.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, within the World system of common human experience, we speak of truth and wisdom as though they are a matter of intelligence, knowing and mental functions (e.g., fantasy, imagination, recall). For mature believers in Christ, truth and wisdom may be understood as aspects of Divine Person. As the content of sacred being, they are inseparable from other divine substance such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, righteousness, and wrath against sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to the measure of faith you now contain.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/04/2013) A Spirit Church?

      Focus, today, is upon the foundation for the church described and proclaimed by Jesus Christ. Also, there is more on knowledge and the life of ones spirit. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Matthew” (Level 2 with 340 points, a member since January 12, 2013) posted the following:

What church is Jesus referring to in Matthew 16:18-19?

THE BATTLE AXE: Life Given By Knowledge? (04/03/2013)—(6.) Knowledge itself is not life; yet, knowledge provides order and structure for life, and permits affirmation of life through certainty and confidence. Knowledge about GOD that is from GOD unveils a sacred dimension for human existence, and transforms the operation and spirit makeup of human awareness. (See 2nd Peter 1: 2-11, KJV.) (7.) Meekness and repentance must characterize the attitudes and behavior of the changed person who is a believer. In addition to acceptance of divine authority shown as dutifulness, obedience and respect, there must be a willingness to break off noxious habits, irreverence and sinful behavior, a willingness to humbly learn and grow after the direction of the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to encourage, nourish and share the knowledge of redemption and salvation with others.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 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. (Colossians 1: 12-20, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Spirit and Pentecost (03/27/2013); The Passion at Gethsemane (03/28/2013); Science and the Laws of Nature? (03/23/2013); Translation, Please… (01/11/2013); Understanding Hell (01/09/2013); The Golden Age? (01/10/2013); Therefore There Was Trust (01/07/2013); The Place For Eternal Life? (01/06/2013); Spirit Matter (10/21/2012); Caesarea Philippi (10/22/2012); Girdle 32: Worship GOD (12/17/2011); Dispatch 35: My Defense (09/14/2011)

      Matthew, here are some points that should be helpful to you and your readers. These will have their greatest clarity and usefulness following a simple prayer to show respect, and where one will ask the blessing of GOD to correctly understand and apply them:

(1.) The church Jesus proclaimed would be present and operate as an inner condition within believers, and is established by direct actions from himself with GOD the Father, and the same Holy Spirit that operated at Creation. More than a physical building or social institution, the church is to be identified as an assemblage of spirits.

(2.) The church of Jesus would appear and be realized through sacred truths, rather than secular knowledge, logic, philosophy, reason and science. Focus of the church would not be upon carnal, material and social issues, so much as upon the revealing of GOD to mankind through divine utterance. Included, here, are appearances of the word from GOD imparted to humanity as confession, doctrine, law, praise, prayer, promise, and prophecy.

(3.) The church of Jesus has a comprehensive cosmic focus, and is a summation binding together and clarifying aspects of truth across time (past, present, future), space (earth, heaven, the universe), and embracing all sentient beings (e.g., angels, animals, mortals, sacred beasts of heaven).

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) A specific spiritual truth is the foundation and rock that serves as the platform for the church: The church appears among mankind, however cannot be known by operations of “flesh and blood,” or the usual mechanics of the World system. The World system is man-made, and has been fashioned to ease acquiring and exchanging resources, and to ensure human survival. Familiar aspects of the World include agriculture, domesticating animals, language groups, money, and politics.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC