(12/03/2020) Does The Bible Forget?

 

Divinity is providing graphic and memorable one-time events along with immutable recorded accounts to correctly display multiple aspects of divine fullness to created beings and living creatures. Awareness and self-will (willpower) in the living are influenced by divinity to embrace, internalize, recall, and express sacred meanings, standards and values. While man-made devices also are used such as abbreviations, analogies, lessons, repetition, and sacred symbols, the process of GOD is directed to those who receive understanding that is imparted from divinity, and sacred knowledge unfolds primarily through Spirit substance deposited within the living. It is written: Hebrews 10: 16-23, King James Version (KJV): 16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; 17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. 18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. 19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, 20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; 21 And having an high priest over the house of God; 22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is presented) posted the following:

Did the Bible forget the 10 commandments?

8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.(I) 9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,”[a](J) and whatever other command there may be, are summed up(K) in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”[b](L) 10 Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.(M)

This is from Romans 13 and I'm pointing to where it just ignores all the other commandments and say just follow whatever commandments that were summon up. I can understand that the Bible was written by different people with different ideas but this reminds me of Joe Biden saying you know the thing. But how could the Bible ever forget about the 10 commandments? I was thinking maybe these were the commandments only Christians follow because of keep the Sabbath holy isn't viewed by a lot of Christians as don't do anything except worship God. But really it does even say any other comment there may be.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. (1^st Timothy 4: 6-7, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); “What if” and “Maybe” (10/20/2020); It’s Not Rocket Science (07/15/2020); The Place Of Meeting (04/08/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); The Commandments Against Sin (11/26/2019); A Complete Divine Revelation (11/15/2019)

“Anonymous”, the Bible does not forget, however, many lack the knowledge of sacred truth that must appear among the living fitted to the life-process of mankind. There must be acknowledgment, discovery, gradual growth, focused study, suffering, and victory. Mind-reading, predicting the future, are not required so much as discernment to recognize and respond to familiar patterns among the things from GOD (e.g., ABCDEFG, XYZ must be coming). The process and substance for divine redemption and salvation do not disguise, hide, or make a mystery of GOD. The Scriptures display and reveal otherwise invisible, unchanging, and unknowable aspects of the character, makeup, and nature of GOD. Thousands of events that occur within thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years are presented within the holy writings that impart a correct awareness of sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purposes, and the sovereign will of GOD. Praises, prayers, proclamations, promises, and prophecies offered by others have been recorded and preserved as part of an inheritance to those who enter covenant relationship with divinity through such sacred operations as baptism, rebirth, repentance, resurrection, and suffering. Because many reading the Bible are re-building and restoring the foundations of sacred order within themselves that may have been in place since before their birth the holy writings often use abbreviations, brief summations, reminders, and warnings without details. Consider again the following that use language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st Peter 2: 1-5, King James Version (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. 4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, 5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

(2.) 2^nd Peter 1: 2-9, KJV: 2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, 3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.

(3.) 1^st Thessalonians 4: 8-10, KJV: 8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit. 9 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. 10 And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Acts 20: 32, KJV: 32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:33 PM, December 03, 2020 @ https://biblepic.com/50/29754.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/01/2020) The Device of Inheritance

 

Inheritance as a sacred device is in view, today, for inheritance speaks to more than the lawful transfer to the living of material goods and wealth from those who are deceased. Properly understood, the inheritance for mankind from divinity includes words of comfort, exhortation, proclamations, promises, prophecies, and sacred practices. On the earth, there may be many heirs who all are to receive a portion of what may be a small estate. Even so, the primary heir is to receive a double portion above others. Where a firstborn child is to be acknowledged as a primary heir, he or she is to serve as the duly appointed agent who will continue and fulfill duties that have not been completed, repair the reputation of the deceased, or maintain the obligations and responsibilities of dynasty. Among Christians, inheritance is not another man-made legal process to manage debt, resolve claims and counter claims among family members, or settle disputes among those claiming authority and succession. Sinners who become “born again” are granted benefits, possibilities, and spirit-substance from the makeup of divinity that establish the very continuity, purposes, and relationships we describe as rebirth, resurrection, and eternal life. It is written: Revelation 5: 9-14, King James Version (KJV): 9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; 10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. 11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; 12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. 13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever. 14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Christians! What good is it being God's heirs if God will never die?

"Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ..." -- Romans 8:17

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. (Ephesians 2: 19-22, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Explaining The Earlier Covenants (11/22/2020); The Inheritance From GOD (08/26/2020); He Commanded Our Fathers (08/09/2020); The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); They Which Are Called (04/09/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); Grace Abounds Much More (04/02/2020)

“Anonymous”, inheritance as a sacred tool used by divinity is not connected to death, dying, and receiving material goods and wealth from someone who has deceased so much as it is a connection between heaven and earth to establish eternal life. Through Jesus Christ, the operations and substance of inheritance are expressions of sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Inheritance as a sacred device and practice further establishes continuity, duration, grace, and multiple aspects of relationship (e.g., accountability; communication through confession, praise and prayer; forbearance; forgiveness; gratitude; lovingkindness; oneness without sameness; stability). Sinners who become “born again” by turning to GOD must “grow up again” and undergo permanent changes whereby they receive fresh endowments of the life essence (breath; spirit; word) that was imparted to Adam from the character and makeup of GOD. As vessels containing divine DNA (so to speak), sinners become offspring of GOD, the children of GOD, and those on the earth who are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ in their lifestyles and daily routines. Included are inseparable features such as commitment, discernment, faith, holiness, humility, longsuffering, mercy for those found guilty in judgment, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 6: 9-11, King James Version (KJV): 9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 15: 45-43, KJV: 45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

(3.) Ephesians 5: 1-6, KJV: 1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. 3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

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 2:45 AM, December 01, 2020 @ http://hethathasanear.com/images/dove-priests.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/10/2019) To Be Jesus' Sheep

Today, reply is on those who are the flock and sheep of Jesus Christ. The many multitudes that have received atonement, forgiveness, and reconciliation to divinity through the ministries of Jesus Christ include those in covenant with GOD from the days of Adam, the Patriarchs, the tribes of Jacob in Canaan, and the developing believers of the present age. As members of his body and his fruit from many cultures, languages, places and times, those who will be the harvest of Christ at his appearing will display great diversity as well as oneness without sameness. All these will come together for sacred service and worship within the holy city, the New Jerusalem. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

What does it mean to be Jesus' sheep?

Matthew 25:35-46 has Jesus telling Christians to feed his sheep.

Who are Jesus' sheep?

Are Jesus' sheep those who are loyal to Jesus and his God Jehovah?

Are Jesus' sheep those who do not know Jesus or Jehovah?

Who and what are Christian's supposed to feed?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 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: 16-23, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: According To Divine Purpose (06/09/2019); On Diversity and Equality (05/22/2018); From Glory to Glory (11/14/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); My Sheep Hear My Voice (11/16/2016); Sheep of His Pasture (09/09/2016); The Sheep Who Lost Their Way? (11/18/2014); Restoring The Lost? (11/19/2014)

“Anonymous”, in the same way Jacob maintained the flocks of Laban, his father in-law, and had to develop his own separate flock, Christian believers understand that divinity appeared Incarnate on the earth as Jesus Christ (the Son) to gather and maintain the scattered flocks of the Father in heaven, and has developed his own separate flocks through sacred works of atonement, spiritual adoption, inheritance, rebirth, and new creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Ezekiel 34: 11-17, King James Version (KJV): 11 For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. 13 And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country. 14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. 15 I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD. 16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. 17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.

2. Ezekiel 34: 26-31, KJV: 26 And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing. 27 And the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall know that I am the LORD, when I have broken the bands of their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them. 28 And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid. 29 And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of the heathen any more. 30 Thus shall they know that I the LORD their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord GOD. 31 And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord GOD.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. 1^st 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 examples 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.

Image downloaded 7:15 PM, June 10, 2019 @ https://image.slidesharecdn.com/gods-true-church2510/95/gods-true-church-a-bible-study-on-revelation-chapter-12-11-728.jpg?cb=1394569014

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/24/2019) Black History Month, 2019

Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Historian

Today, some thoughts are shared for Black History Month, 2019. As evidenced by the removal of Civil War statues, and the changing of names for public office buildings, schools and major thoroughfares, many forward-looking American communities and institutions are now in a full transition to acknowledge the War Between the States and its influence on the expression of public issues to have its greatest value as heritage and history, rather than, as before, being necessary as a vital element for mutual acceptance, solidarity, and survival while rising from the ruin of war. All Americans are being challenged to correctly grasp the true benefit, nature, and substance both of heritage, and that of genuine history. Because the minds and hearts of Christians dwell on lofty sacred themes of eternal spirit and immortality, many seem to dismiss the importance of simple earthly elements that describe the human predicament such as kinship, duty, time, and place. Even so, a physician acting as a chronicler and historian contributed two books of the Bible (the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts). The holy writings plainly establish that there are intangibles and unseen things that also must come into view because they further determine the human condition and ongoing events. Included are such features as desire, faith, hope, motivation, and willpower. Even as scholars, where we will repeatedly focus on such elements as discrimination, injustice, oppression, prejudice and racism, or upon the multiple difficulties, failures, and hardships that describe human experience, there is great danger that we may become caught up within the cycles of cynicism, despair, disappointment, and skepticism. There must be tried focus and tested order that will shield the emotional, mental, and psychological aspects of those who seek to document and preserve a lasting record to benefit future generations. Just as genuine faith will be discerned through works of righteousness, quality research will be distinguished and recognized as excellent on the basis of its robustness and rigor. There are many presentations and television documentary films, now, that are being regarded as “historical” because their intent is to expose the background of great events, of social movements, and of the sacrifices made by the great men remembered as leaders and participants. Unfortunately, the true character and substance for such productions often is that of celebrating secular knowledge, commercial advertising and selling, fostering nostalgia and sentiment, the promotion of popular culture, and the re-affirmation of questionable customs, themes, and traditions. The true goals, method, and substance of Black History are those of an academic field, a Liberal Arts curriculum, and an authentic Social Science. Thus, there are demands for clarity, exactness, objectivity, precision, and validity that may not be ignored, and are not to be forgotten. The same way educators and parents are now encouraging STEM, we also must be careful to encourage the scientific practice of History.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding. He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. (Proverbs 9: 6-11, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Battleaxe on War (11/13/2018); Arrayed In Sacred Favor (02/25/2018); Bloody Sunday -- Black History (02/14/2018); George Washington Owned Slaves (08/17/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); Fulfillment of His Dream? (04/05/2017); The Best Starting Point? (09/13/2016); The Accounts of Giants (05/24/2016); Academic Language? (12/10/2015)

RIGOR

[Black History Month, 2019]

Because History is a science

and its method is not shaped to say

I love you

or to lionize a fashion

culture pop, legend, myth, and lore

precise expressions

focused tools

are taken up

the measurable dimensions of

mankind

through artifacts

and documents

rather than emotions

issues, feelings

there is

the disciplined search

for cause

effect

and regularity

hypothesis and theory

probe for law

case study is not satisfied

with anecdote

broadcast news report

and even oral tradition

must meet standards

that will sate the tests of time

a harvest from this field

requires seed

finite with limits

not always for forecasting and prediction

the study has its worth because

the trust is that the truth

will set you free

the study has its worth

because of rigor.

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2019. All rights reserved.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(07/10/2016) Cultural, Political, Spiritual Growth?

Today, points are shared on how America and all its people must undergo continuous change that appears as development, learning, and growth.  As we receive correction, those of us who are wise also change.  With their people, nations rise or fall by responding to challenges, issues, and obstacles against their various routines for daily living.  A commonwealth or state must have at its core commitment to life, peace, progress and stability.  The justice of GOD as well as diversity, flexibility, integrity, and variety then can be seen as benefits that enrich the shared quality of life throughout the entire community.  For mature Christian believers, growth to full citizenship means embracing the best and highest values of an America that also gradually changes.  Commitment to the Nation is a further expression of agreement with the doctrine and teachings of the faith:  None of us are completely matured and spiritually perfected, yet; and we are to encourage, nourish, be patient with, and protect one another.  The gradual revelation of divine righteousness and truth call the living into accepting permanent and irreversible changes.  At the coming of Jesus to harvest those who are “ripe” from the earth the present ongoing transformation will be completed—in the twinkling of an eye.  Areas that now should display divine alteration, improvements, and increase include awareness of divine intent, commitment to eternal purposes, holy boldness, longsuffering, meekness, sacred knowledge, self discipline and self restraint.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Bobby” (Level 1 with 1 point, a member since March 10, 2012) posted the following:

Obama thinks that I'm a bitter religious fanatic because I believe that men should go to the men's restroom and women to the women's?

Isn't it sad how much society has DEGENERATED that this is now controversial?

When I was a kid it wasn't!

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For the LORD hath called thee as a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit, and a wife of youth, when thou wast refused, saith thy God.  For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee.  In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.  For this is as the waters of Noah unto me:  for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee.  For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.  O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colours, and lay thy foundations with sapphires.  And I will make thy windows of agates, and thy gates of carbuncles, and all thy borders of pleasant stones.  And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.  In righteousness shalt thou be established:  thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear:  and from terror; for it shall not come near thee.  Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me:  whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.  Behold, I have created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire, and that bringeth forth an instrument for his work; and I have created the waster to destroy.  No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.  (Isaiah 54:  6-17, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Once We Know Better? (07/01/2016); Natural and Spiritual Law? (06/30/2016); About Other People's Beliefs (06/22/2016); The Cross and Arbitrary Differences (06/17/2016); Sodom and Gomorrah Again? (05/30/2016); Where Society Is Headed? (01/11/2016); One Faith, One Lord? (09/26/2014); Healing is By Relationship? (09/27/2014)

“Bobby”, society has not degenerated so much as we have acquired greater secular knowledge, and are now being challenged to respond to issues and other Americans who have been ignored, overlooked, and rejected, yet, were calling for acknowledgment all the time.  Just as a child may receive status as a Christian by inheritance (i.e., by being born to Christian parents) and by their own water baptism that depicts death and burial of their inborn spirit, and rebirth from divine DNA, most of us are born into status as Americans.  Despite our being acknowledged as citizens, while we are minor children we are without full understanding of the cultural heritage, guiding principles, political process, and provisions by law that distinguish our Nation.  As surely as children must experience growth of their physical bodies and their inner spirit content, they also must acquire mature (i.e., balanced, complete, consistent, effective, productive, stable) understandings of the major ideas and values for prosperity, success, and survival within their family, their home, the larger society, and the world. 

Since the beginnings of our Nation, all Americans have not had the same depth and level of access, knowledge, or participation, regarding Democracy, civil rights, franchise, taxation, the three branches of America’s government, or voting rights.  There were many passionate debates and exchanges with adjustments in ones perception and position that finally resulted in the Declaration of Independence.  A goal was set and put into place that described achieving an ideal or perfect State; and, in effect, it was agreed, we may not make it, but our time won’t be wasted if we try (another leader of a revolution is credited with something similar, The journey of a thousand miles begins with one small step….). 

There is far more that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, in the Bible, King Solomon complains that unfair and unfruitful aspects of life never seem to change, and there is nothing new under the sun.  In the course of meeting challenges to our continued existence, Americans at every economic, educational, emotional, psychological, and social level have had to learn, grow, and accept change.  America operates as though a living entity, and therefore, we may describe the Nation as being dynamic, empathetic, forward-looking, full of surprises, organic, and proactive.  From its beginnings America has included Africans, Christians, Europeans, immigrants, Indigenous Peoples, Latinos, migrants, non-Christians, the poor, the wealthy, and those struggling with the common “growing pains” of personal development that include sexual appetite, sexual identity, and sexual preference.  Where America will continue to be an expression of life, rather than death, America must also be careful to nourish righteousness, and the Spirit of Truth.)  Even so, I am sure this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/01/2015) Correctly Knowing Israel?

Both finite ethnic and infinite spiritual identity are in view, today.  Christians are to be distinctive as set apart for service to GOD (we say, sanctified) through their endowments and gifts of divine purpose, fellowship, sacred knowledge, and sacred practice (we say, sacraments).  Thus, believers are described by the truth as found in such Scripture as Psalms 4:  3 (KJV):  But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself:  the LORD will hear when I call unto him.  Because the followers of Jesus Christ receive fresh spirit content from the makeup of divinity—yet, must develop and minister upon the earth challenged by the same life experiences and carnal process as others—many are confused about how to correctly identify those belonging to GOD through the sacred events (we say, miracles) of baptism and rebirth.  While believers are correct to acknowledge their human origins, and express themselves respecting their own and the culture and heritage of others, their primary source of self-definition will always be Christ as their redeemer and savior.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “yacov” (Level 2 with 494 points, a member since April 23, 2010) challenged all who are born again with the following:


Identity Crisis Alert - Believers, do you understand who Israel is?

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.And if ye [be] Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. Galatians 3:28-29

Who are Israelites; to whom [pertaineth] the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service [of God], and the promises;Whose [are] the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ [came], who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. Romans 9:4-5


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.  My flesh and my heart faileth:  but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.  (Psalm 73:  25-26, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Fallen Nature? (09/01/2014); In the Likeness of His Resurrection (09/02/2014); A Common Heritage? (07/13/2014); Asleep Through the Holocaust? (07/14/2014); Prayer not Enough? (07/12/2013); A Tree Falls To The South (07/13/2013); Why Jesus Must Be A Jew (03/18/2013); The Benefit of Grace (03/19/2013); A Daily Revelation? (10/02/2012); Blessings, Curses and Woes (10/03/2012)


“yacov”, along with permanent changes to awareness and self-will, carnal, material and social identity are so completely altered in those who walk by faith (not by sight), they are said to be “born again” (i.e., conceived and generated from divine DNA), and are a completely new creation.  Here are a few points shared in the holy writings that have helped many to further understand this:

(1.)  Luke 10:  21-23 (KJV):  21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes:  even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.  22 All things are delivered to me of my Father:  and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.  23 And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see:  24 For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

(2.)  1st John 3:  1-3 (KJV):  3 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.  2 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.  3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

(3.)  Romans 2:  28-29 (KJV):  28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:  29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

(4.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  16-18 (KJV):  16 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh:  yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.  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;

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Galatians 6:  14-16 (KJV):  14 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.  15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.  16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/27/2015) POEM: MR. DYNAMITE

As Black History Month, 2015 draws to its close, I share another original poem acknowledging the incredible talent of arranger, composer, singer, live theater producer and performing artist, music record producer, and broadcast media owner, the Father of Funk, James Joseph Brown.  James Brown was among the many gifted black performers who transformed America’s popular culture, and created the music that further tore down the barriers of segregation.  Where once Brown could appear only on the “chittlin’ circuit” featuring five theaters showcasing entertainers within Negro communities (the Royal, Baltimore, MD; the Howard, DC; the Apollo, Harlem, NYC; the Regal, Chicago, IL; and the Earl, Philadelphia, PA), James Brown would later become one of the headline acts featured in Las Vegas, NV.  At one time Brown employed 40-50 people in his James Brown Revue; and performed some 330 one-nighters within a single year.

MR. DYNAMITE
[A Black History Memoir, 2015]

Part 1:  THERE WAS A TIME


A culture is more than what a people suffer
It’s also how and when they may rejoice
What it is that shines like wisdom, understanding
The trail they blaze for those yet to be born
The merit they will add to the efforts made by others
The treasures that they keep by choice
The light within their soul that they give voice

A heritage is what a people live in spite of trial
Beset by darkness, climbing to the heights
Fixing their gaze upon excellence
Training like those who enter the ring
Throwing bombs like Joe Lewis
Remaining unspoiled, impressing even whites
Jabbing and hooking, his lightning lefts and rights

Accomplishing survival, pursuing after change
Finding that companion who would heal
Learning to smile as a way of overcoming
Being smart enough, tough enough never to quit
To carry the burdens of love and purpose
To show yourself, the depth of all you feel
Guarding your heart, and still being for real

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine
So we indulged the madness of the days
We heard Cab, and Duke, and Lunceford
And self-taught Satchel Mouth who broke the mold
The musicianship of Nat King Cole
An array of talent, polished, worthy of praise
They said would never last, “its just a craze”

We knew would last forever, because they served
As a solid wall against the lonely nights
And the tossing, turning dreams of post-war equality
Accumulated day by day, paid for with our
Blood, sweat and tears
Shutting out the insults and the slights
Proving the dog that’s unafraid to bark is one that bites

For there were unintended benefits
Surrounded by our haters
Black organizations and institutions were maintained
Through hard work and careful use of money
We developed our own radio
Newspapers and theaters
And established places for those who were outstanding as creators

Where we could evoke an era
Placing a man in the context of his times
Not capturing every detail, yet, savoring his genius
Correctly splashing the canvass with broad strokes
Forbidden to paint a Black Caesar up in Harlem
Selling excitement for nickels and for dimes
A leader called to quell rioting and self-destructive crimes


Part 2:  MONEY WON’T CHANGE YOU


Because music is a lifeline, rhythm became our speech
Big Bands gave way to Rock and Roll
Street singer Doo-Wop became the cool
Where our value once was from our hands and backs
We honed our ability to tell a story through a song
Created a path from poverty that gave us more control
And America began to hear a music from the soul

The best began to set our minds on fire
With lessons for our hearts that challenged pride
We found the turmoil in our lives had meaning
Despite our limitations we could soar
For they performed by burning down the house
We no longer had to cringe and hide
We discovered we had wealth hidden inside

We crowned Jerry Butler the Ice Man
And we heard confession in a lover’s pleas
Because when he would sing, Your Precious Love
Humility and passion were in power
Before we could detect a change or move
He was melting by degrees
And when the song crescendoed he was singing from his knees

We called Aretha Franklin Natural Woman
The Queen of Soul whose messages were plain
To reach the goal of love that lasts forever
You have to dig down deep for buried treasures
With courage give yourself and only take
The risk of heartache, tears that stain
Ain’t no way to have its pleasure without also having its pain

We called James Brown The King of Soul
Who would not just entertain, the man would thrill
In the long line of American stars and showmen
JB was undisputed, far above them all
The circus, movies, Broadway, Wild West action
Compared to Barnum, Berkeley, Ziegfeld, Buffalo Bill
A Black man had more savvy and more skill

The Godfather of Soul compiled a list
Of hits, chart toppers, million-seller gold
There Was a Time, Bewildered, Think
Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag
Out of Sight, It’s a Man’s Man’s World
Try Me, the early successes, bold
The half of it just ain’t been told

The Payback, If You Leave Me I’ll Go Crazy
The curtain parted, and from the time you were seated
You would be showered with the fantastic
Everyone around you could feel the same affection
And we held what they were sharing as priceless
We never left feeling betrayed or cheated
Or that we ourselves could ever be defeated


Part 3.  NIGHT TRAIN


We only ever saw perfection raw, incredible
Before the day of the Elvis imitator
Tina Turner was called The Female James Brown
There was Little Royal and Lee Fields
Who sought to match him stroke for stroke
And wowed us honoring the innovator
And made it clear, there was none greater

Yeah, it was after work, and on the weekends
We didn’t just go to sit and see a show
We went to discover what others had gathered
In a world we knew was wider than our own
For our entertainers were welcome across the globe
All the places we could never go
Because we were still oppressed by ole Jim Crow

James Brown made you a traveler
His speaking voice was rasping and gritty
He punctuated almost every song
with moans, or shrieks and squeals
That some called screams, he appeared on stage
Immaculate, and sharp, dressed for every city
And would drive the band showing them no pity

He’d first come out in a tuxedo accented green
And dazzle the room with moves that were tight
And fly, then blow the girls a gentle kiss
And toss the crowd his soaked bow tie
The sweat in torrents like the rain
Rushing, giggling with delight
Someone would have a souvenir that night

In less time than we all could count to ten
He’d leave the stage, go off and make a change
Come back now wearing rhinestones set in blue
Accented with black and silver frets
Refreshed from head to toe, all clean and dry
The spotlight would reflect from off of his “do”
And sparkle from his patent leather shoe

We believed that Brown had played before the crowned heads of Europe
Had conquered meeting every trial and test
We had many names for the drummer
Who played jazz upon the organ and
Like David danced before the Lord with all his might
The Hardest Working Man In Show Business
Performing non-stop without a break or rest
And showing Black America had the best

We called him The Prisoner of Love
Soul Brother Number One
The children of the 70’s and 80’s were born
In a crucible he set ablaze
Because he connected to their parents
Who started out just looking to have fun
And felt they too could “say it loud” before the man was done


Part 4.  SUPERBAD


Brown would sound the “All aboard”
The Brownettes and Flames would hit the step in line
When you thought the show was winding down
Bobby Byrd would pitch in a baseball scene
With everyone dancing the strike out
A joyful celebration of life would erupt
That would be sweeter than cherry wine
And would tingle every spine

Again and again Brown would explode
Lighting everybody’s fuse
Without sorcery or witchcraft
He transformed the consciousness of every viewer
Performing Cold Sweat, Livin’ in America, Gravity
Oh Baby Don’t You Weep, paying dues
A black rainbow in motion changing hues

In the Land of a Thousand Dances
The troupe would go to work
They would Shotgun, do the Underdog
The Hitchhike and the Twist 
The Popeye and the Puppet
Mickey’s Monkey, and the Jerk
Break out into the Boogaloo, and the fans would go berserk

He’d begin the show with a pompadour
A style of processed hair
Where lye would burn to make eyes turn
That became wild and disheveled right away
On one leg he would dance across the entire length of stage
Jaws would drop, and Brown would dare
To challenge even Fred Astaire

Some would jump up from their seats
start dancing in the aisle
The energies of youth and full abandon
Unafraid to be seen or heard in public
Shyness and timidity checked at the door
There was not a face within the place
That did not have a smile
Applauding Mr. Dynamite’s amazing grace and style

Brown was the star who would glimmer and flame
Introducing effects with black light
Florescent beams and stroboscopic streams
The night train would rumble by
You would listen to hear the conductor say the name of your hometown
And he’d speak it to your delight
Rippling like Edison photographs to every viewers sight

Falling to his knees in exhaustion
Bobby would help James limp across the floor
Carrying his suitcase and sobbing
he would tremble, wail and shake
We all would sing along, Please, Please, don’t go
He’d leap up to his feet, throw off his cape
And continue his song of love giving us more
And finally “forced” to leave the stage, the crowd would howl and roar

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2015.  All rights reserved worldwide.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/14/2014) Asleep Through the Holocaust?

Reply is made to a writer accusing GOD of “sleeping” through the Holocaust.  Also, there is more on the common heritage of Abraham, Isaac, and Ishmael.  A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using “Red” as their ID (Level 1 with 93 points, a member since June 22, 2014) posted the following:


Why is God portrayed as intervening all the time in the Bible yet He slept through the Holocaust?


THE BATTLE AXE:  A Common Heritage? (07/13/2014)—(4.)  Christians believe the inheritance from Abraham is a spiritual condition and relationship with GOD.  There are natural sons from Abraham (such as Isaac and Ishmael), and there are spiritual sons of Abraham through covenant, faith, and the promises from GOD.  While working on a project to create a system that would allow the combined street gangs within the city of Philadelphia to maintain a treaty of lasting peace as well as to identify and resolve conflicts and disturbances in their communities before they could result in outbreaks of violence, leadership from the various gangs explained to me that one of their greatest difficulties was escaping the “history of blood.”  In some instances, feuds that had begun among their great grandparents were being continued with the understanding that justice is only by retaliation; and, as the new breed, they were prepared to seek instead a process of cooperation and prevention.  These young men helped me to understand that those who fail to comprehend the higher notions of accountability, duty, principle, and spiritual relationship remain open and vulnerable to destructive and limiting traditions such as the history of blood.  Retribution and the cycle of blood that comes by war is not in agreement with the eternal purposes of GOD that focus upon generating divine justice, immortality, incorruption, and salvation.  When Abraham appealed on behalf of Sodom and the cities of the plain, he did so in sacrifice unselfishly submitting himself to judgment for all mankind, and for the glory and honor of GOD.  The judgment of GOD is always and only to be understood as blessing, for divine judgment is the resolution of every conflict, and the settlement of all disputes through the applications of sacred law.  The aberrations and perversions of social justice among mankind that persist because of sin are regularly cloaked by lying appeals and their presentation as franchise, freedom, secular history, law enforcement, politics, progress, and science.  Included have been such errors as abortion, apartheid, ethnic arrogance, eugenics, exaggerated pride, genocide, infanticide (the slaughter of babies), “population control,” and racism, that only occur by departure from the eternal purposes of divinity.  War begets more war; peace is never the outcome of war.  Peace is the outcome of judgment—yet, only where there is consensus, genuine honor, integrity, order, and respect that acknowledges and maintains unquestioned authority and sovereignty.  See again Genesis 18:  17-26, John 8:  31-45, Acts 13:  26, Galatians 3:  7 and Matthew 21:  23-31, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.  My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.  He will not suffer thy foot to be moved:  he that keepeth thee will not slumber.  Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.  The LORD is thy keeper:  the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand.  The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.  The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil:  he shall preserve thy soul.  The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.  (Psalms 121  1-8, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Abandoned by GOD? (06/23/2014); (07/01/2013) GOD Intervenes? (07/01/2013); Jericho Justified? (07/02/2013); Remembering the Holocaust? (12/14/2012); A Slaughter of Innocents (12/15/2012); Why Did The Judges Fight? (10/19/2012); The Spirit is Willing (10/20/2012)


“Red”, here are a few points to consider that have allowed Christian believers to avoid spiritual confusion and error:

(1.)  Throughout the holy writings, the Almighty Father is repeatedly portrayed as allowing the carnal, material, and social consequences of human choices and decisions.  Thereby, mankind is to be turned again to GOD as humanity realizes both the appropriate and correct applications of our own human authority and power as well as our inadequacy and limits as created beings and living creatures.  GOD does operate with power; however, the appearance is given of divinity permitting the outworking of destruction, sin, and wickedness upon the earth.  For many, this is most clearly explained in accounts from the Book of Judges.  Israel was under the domination of the Midianites when Gideon was approached by an angel messenger to serve as one of the persons chosen to be a deliverer for Israel.  Doubting anyone could really overcome such a powerful enemy, Gideon even dared to ask, where are all the miracles GOD is reported as having done in the past (see Judges 6:  13, KJV).

(2.)  The people of GOD do not accuse the Almighty Father of sleeping through their times of affliction, hardship, testing, and tribulation.  The workings of GOD during the Shoah are hidden only to those lacking discernment (ability to use their own spirit content to recognize and respond to spirit matter within such life experience as events, holy writings, other persons, purposes, and utterances); those dominated by the non-material, non-spirit influence that is sin; and those whose dependence upon appetite, sensation, and emotion/mental functions deprive them of full consciousness that GOD is an active presence.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  All covenants and ongoing relationships with GOD must be known and realized through the mechanisms and terms supplied from divinity.  Included are such elements as atonement; cleansing; confession; expectation (we say, hope); forgiveness; healing; the imparted, indwelling Spirit; divine law; praise; prayer; repentance; sanctification; wisdom; and worship.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC