(08/17/2017) George Washington Owned Slaves

John Trumbull, 1780 - George Washington and William Lee, the enslaved personal servant, who for many years spent more time in Washington’s presence than any other man.

Today, in response to a recent statement from President Trump, topics include cultural history, sins of America’s past, our present-day accountability, and spiritual confusion.  The President could be discerned to be warning the public against impassioned, yet, ungodly pursuit of judgment.  The process and substance of judgment that would meet the standards from GOD must include balance, clarity, impartiality, integrity, thoroughness, and transparency.  In speaking about the tragic event in Charlottesville, Virginia where Heather Heyer was killed during what were to have been lawful protest demonstrations for and against continuing civil war memorials, the President did not condemn any specific groups and organizations thought responsible for the violence.  When challenged by the media, President Trump cautioned that attacks against historical figures such as Robert E. Lee (the West Point graduate who led the Confederate Army during the Civil War), may also be made against others including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.  By asking, Where will it end?, the President suggested that many who were indispensable to establishing the principles for what has been the world’s most enduring democratic government also advocated and practiced many of the attitudes and prejudices of their times that we now condemn; and none of our early “heroes” will be found guiltless and without flaws.  Thus, for example, on February 2, 2017, PBS News broadcasted that five American Presidents owned slaves while they were in office:  President George Washington (1789-1797), Thomas Jefferson (1801-1809), James Madison (1809-1817), James Monroe (1817-1825), and Andrew Jackson (1829-1837).  Christian believers are not to rush to judgment, as the third world continues to do, condemning every American leader, and all Americans who ever were or ever will be.  The following was downloaded from Wikipedia, the online Internet encyclopedia 1:37 PM, August 16, 2017 from the article George Washington and slavery:


George Washington, the first President of the United States, held people in slavery for virtually all of his life. His will provided for freeing the enslaved people he held upon the death of his widow Martha Washington. In January 1801 Martha freed her husband’s slaves, just over a year after his death.[1] However, while she lived, Martha did not emancipate any of the people she held, because she held only the lifetime use of them. When she died, on May 22, 1802, at the age of 70, all of those enslaved people went to the descendants of her first husband, Daniel Parke Custis.

When Washington was eleven years old, he inherited ten slaves;[3] by the time of his death, 317 slaves lived at Mount Vernon,[4] including 123 owned by Washington, 40 leased from a neighbor, and an additional 153 "dower slaves." While these dower slaves were designated for Martha's use during her lifetime, they were part of the estate of her first husband Daniel Parke Custis, and the Washingtons could not sell or manumit them.[5] As on other plantations during that era, Washington's slaves worked from dawn until dusk unless injured or ill; they could be whipped for running away or for other infractions. They were fed, clothed, and housed as inexpensively as possible, in conditions that were probably meager.[citation needed]

Visitors recorded varying impressions of slave life at Mount Vernon: one visitor in 1798 wrote that Washington treated his slaves "with more severity" than his neighbors, while another around the same time stated that "Washington treat[ed] his slaves far more humanely than did his fellow citizens of Virginia.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son:  the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.  But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.  All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him:  in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.  Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD:  and not that he should return from his ways, and live?  But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned:  in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.  Yet ye say, The way of the LORD is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal?  When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.  Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.  Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.  (Ezekiel 18:  20-28, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Righteousness Exalts A Nation (07/04/2017); Fulfillment of His Dream? (04/05/2017);  Joy, Survival and Worship (06/21/2017); Divine Law Expresses Love (05/10/2017); Covetousness, Slavery and Sin (09/16/2016); Called Slaves by GOD? (02/10/2016); The Provision Against Racists? (01/19/2016); Slaves to Sin? (04/13/2015) 


(1.)  Even where we attempt to apply the patterns and standards from the holy writings, law and the judgment of men on the basis of their deeds and works must be approached as involving multiple occasions—and the likelihood for—irreversible error.  Often, no single event or set of actions can be identified as including the full panorama of any man’s accomplishments, desires, efforts, expressions, motives, quality, and value.  With this in view, the determination to be made when courts and juries assemble are the actuality of specific contributions and participation of an individual during specific events, and is not a matter of their overall eternal value, merit and worth.

(2.)  Mature Christian believers usually agree that awareness and self-will may be dominated by sin.  The operations of sin may be invisibly embedded within customs and traditions, and can be regularly expressed through cultural, interpersonal, political, and social practices that appear historically acceptable, natural, and normal; and sin will not appear to be contrary to human character, continued existence, godliness, and truth. 

(3.)  Slavery as an institution to decimate and exploit Africans began in the markets of Portugal, Europe, fifty years before Columbus would land in the New World seeking to become wealthy through slaves and spices.  As practiced in America, slavery was a form of imperial idolatry likely begun in Egypt where, during the years of famine, in order to survive, the Egyptian people (and not the Jews) sold everything they had to Pharaoh:  their livestock, their property and themselves.  Using dynasty and inheritance, the Pharaohs exercised a control that amounted to abuse, promoting themselves as gods over their own people.  Using bigotry, discrimination, racism, and hate there have been those promoting an American nightmare in place of the American Dream.

(4.)  Growing up under the influence of Jesus Christ in my life, I have been able to truthfully say neither that every Black person is my friend, nor that every White person is my enemy.  The issues of belonging, brotherhood, and separation because of ethnicity, origin, race, and skin color repeatedly destroy confidence, curiosity, discovery, flexibility, belief in a future, and hope for the higher levels of accomplishment among the young.  Anger and hate are thought to be forms of strength that allow us to confront death, however, the serious work of growth and learning that must be done to maintain life requires balance, concentration, dispassion, level-headedness, maturity, and sobriety.  Like many others, here in America, I discovered the more correct focus in deciding affiliation and to whom I connect has been the separation because of differences in sacred commitment, and ones own endowment of spirit content from the makeup of GOD.

(5.)  Patriotism and love of ones homeland are passing and temporal.  They even may be seen as a form of idolatry.  In the understanding of mature Christian believers, all have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD.  There can be no lasting display of mercy and righteousness without divine judgment; and the provisions of GOD through Jesus Christ include atonement, forgiveness, redemption and repentance as well as reconciliation.  For George Washington, Robert E. Lee, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump, the “escape” from “all or nothing” condemnation that we will embrace as victims of our own cultural and historical limitations comes by continuing in sound covenant relationship and the testament of sacred blood.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (6.)  In our god-given oneness without sameness, every American wants to be free.  It would be fitting that the President of the United States issue a new call to end equivocation regarding American slavery.  While it continues to be correct to acknowledge George Washington, the founders of the Nation, and the many others who have contributed and served to create a way of life that may ultimately become a standard for the universe, none are to be celebrated, lauded, or regarded as having lawful justification in our present system for their earlier crimes against Africa, America, and all mankind.  Because we have distance, maturity, perspective and sobriety, we now can see more correctly their actual achievements and errors; and, because we seek to give and receive forgiveness, to maintain reasonable balance, and to go forward on the diverse paths of prosperity, we are to call “sin” by its proper name.  Continuing the commitment necessary to deal with the lawful issues of differences among us, diversity, and “State’s rights” while putting aside all issues of anyone being “holier than thou,” (1) there can be no equivocation; and, (2) there can be forgiveness:  There are no “kind” and “understanding” slave-owners; there are no men of honor and higher nobility who maintain others as slaves; there have never been, are none now, and will never be “good” and “wise” leaders of men who make merchandise of others, that feed on the misery and pain of others, and who arrogantly traffic in other men’s lives.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/13/2015) Jesus Our Only Hero?

Hero-worship (i.e., idolatry), false religiosity, distraction from the work of the Gospel and misdirection are themes, today.  Because just being sorry for sin does not cleanse, excuse or save us, Christian believers are participating in a sacred process of identifying themselves in Christ such that the Savior becomes accountable for their errors and sins, and the righteousness of Christ becomes manifest and present through the life of the believer.  Just as Christ is credited for enduring condemnation and suffering, the Lord—not his follower or servant—is to be recognized for the circumspection, courage, discipline, dutifulness, faithfulness, generosity, obedience, reverence, tenderness, truthfulness, sacrifice and sweetness expressed by every believer.  Consider again 2nd Timothy 1:  7-10, King James Version (KJV):  7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.  8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;  9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,  10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Solitary Wiccan” (Level 3 with 1,369 points, a member since May 06, 2014) posted the following:


Why is Kim Davis seen as a hero to a lot of Christians?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  Not of works, lest any man should boast.  (Ephesians 2:  8-9, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  None Higher Than Christ? (09/04/2015); How To Measure Spiritual Progress? (04/19/2015); Heroes Who Are Atheists? (01/23/2015); Asked to Carry the Cross? (07/25/2014); Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); Wanting to Have Our Way (03/09/2013); Not Even Sorry? (03/10/2013); Hero or Zero? (12/04/2012); The Adversary? (12/05/2012)


“Solitary Wiccan”, throughout human history and the many religious traditions, Jesus is the only champion for mankind’s deliverance (i.e., rescue) and salvation from sin acknowledged upon the earth as provided from GOD.  When a person appears having the courage to champion the Bible and its teachings, many are deceived as though GOD is active and present through that individual.  Mature believers are slow to endorse celebrities, political figures, and those promoted through popular culture, because we realize that Satan can still appear as though an angel of light, and has been known to use Scriptures as well as carnal, material and social appeals to ensnare the weak.  Here are a few points to consider that have helped many Christian believers maintain a balanced, mature and sober understanding of their new relationship with the Creator through Jesus Christ:

(1.)  Born again believers are challenged to “grow again”, gradually acquiring sacred knowledge, continuing special  practices (we say, sacraments) within a sanctified community, and meeting the routine life challenges (we say, growing pains) for those upon the earth.  Because there is a shift at the core and foundation of their full character, person and spirit content, every aspect of a believer’s desires, emotions, motives, psychological makeup, standards, thoughts, and values also are permanently altered.

(2.)  Through fresh deposits of the spirit matter received by Adam at Creation, the consciousness within a believer centers upon divinity more continuously, and acknowledges the exalted and unique aspects of Deity as they appear and become manifest.  Included are such inseparable aspects of divinity as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, purity, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(3.)  Relationships among believers are established and maintained primarily upon the basis of fellowship and intimacy as co-workers in spreading the Gospel, prayer-partners, those preparing for the Advent (soon-coming) of Jesus, and those who suffer together as incarnations, spokespersons (we say, prophets) and representatives of Christ.  With this in view, spouses, ones parents, their children and other family members, even holy angels have a new standing and status that is lower than that of the Savior.  No one other than Jesus can or will endure for mankind and all the earth, and serve as our divine advocate before the universe.

There are many other points that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Secularization of the Scriptures is forbidden, as are the vain efforts to use sacred authority in secular offices (e.g., government clerk, Congressman, President).  The divine process for salvation does not encourage boasting, self-promotion, showing-off, and vain glory.  The holy writings provided to establish health, peace and strength within the body of believers is not a tool for secular conflicts.  Modern clergy and evangelists often walk a thin line between the sacred and the profane.  Thus, even canonization now looks suspect as a practice in the church as though saints are voting members to a hall of fame, or all-star players roster in baseball.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/19/2015) How To Measure Spiritual Progress?

Today, some points are shared on Christian believers recognizing change and growth within their own spirit.  Believers are to experience great joy for their redemption and salvation along with a profound sorrow for sin.  Some, in error, think that being spiritual means having a certain feeling.  Others err thinking their focus can be upon showing a positive attitude, religious behavior, and good works (e.g., church attendance, debating doctrine, charitable giving, handing out tracts, serving meals to homeless).  Those in Christ are cautioned against emotion, introspection (i.e., morbid focus upon ones own failures, faults, and sins that tends to depression and self-condemnation) as well as against self-justification and self-promotion.  While parents, pastors and other clergy, and fellow-believers are to be sources of comfort and spokespersons from GOD to the believer, none are to be taken as “heroes” and idols to be copied without prayerful consideration (many say, question or pause).  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using “Counselor For Lost Souls” as an ID (Level with points, a member since June 10, 2013) posted the following:


How can you measure your spiritual progress?


THE GOLDEN ARROW;  For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves:  but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.  (2nd Corinthians 10:  12, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Relationship With Our Creator? (03/16/2015); Understanding Spiritual Growth? (03/13/2015); Those Who Read? (02/17/2015); To Walk As He Walked? (11/16/2014); To Continue In His Footsteps (11/17/2014); Made in the Image of GOD? (10/09/2014); All Who Read Convert? (10/10/2014); A Fallen Nature? (09/01/2014); In the Likeness of His Resurrection (09/02/2014)


“Counselor For Lost Souls”, here are a few ideas from a Christian believer’s point of view:

(1.)  Progress may be understood as positive change, growth, and the achievement of balance and wholeness as well as ones satisfaction with movement toward their own goals.  For followers of Jesus, many principles and fixed standards are in place to guide those born again in becoming mature (we say, perfected) after the model of Christ.

(2.)  Believers may not “grade their own report card,” so to speak; and the new life in Christ is not one of “do as you please.”  (Every believer is to do as pleases GOD.)  While believers are to learn together and share sacred knowledge, believers are not to compare themselves to one another, nor emulate others as the perfect example.  (This includes figures from the Bible such as Moses, David, Solomon and the Apostles.)

(3.)  Christians enter into an extended process of permanent change and transformation that must be carried out and completed by the imparted Spirit.  Included are confession, bonding with those of the body, rebirth, repentance, and sanctification.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  For most of us, the process of new life in Christ appears as one of both learning and un-learning at the same time.  New patterns of behavior and thought are to be acquired while old patterns are eliminated, removed, and suppressed.  Growth as a believer can be gradual and subtle (i.e., marked by barely visible differences; having hidden and difficult to recognize shifts in meaning and value).  Thus, faith, persistence, perseverance, and trust are vital.  The transformation begun upon the earth in water baptism will be completed at the coming of Jesus.  As they are taken up to meet the Savior in the air, those who are committed and prepared to share eternal life as his companions and joint-heirs will be made immortal and incorruptible.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/23/2015) Heroes Who Are Atheists?

Atheism, damnation, divine judgment, and salvation through good works or public service are topics, today.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “antiesta” (Level 4 with 3,796 points, a member since July 26, 2009) posted the following:


Do heroes like 9/11 firefighters go to Hell if they are atheists?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.  Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.  Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.  Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?  And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you:  depart from me, ye that work iniquity.  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:  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.  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:  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.  (Matthew 7:  18-27, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Soon Return of Jesus? (01/05/2015); Being Good, Enough? (01/06/2015); Asked to Carry the Cross? (07/25/2014); Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); Salvation for Atheists? (06/14/2013); Church is Good? (06/15/2013); On Producing Atheists (03/16/2013); The Children, not the Dogs (03/17/2013); Hero or Zero? (12/04/2012); The Adversary? (12/05/2012)


“antiesta”, here are a few points to consider that are aspects of the full revelation to Christian believers regarding divine judgment:

(1.)  Atheists are not in any of the necessary covenant relationships with divinity.  The blessings of immortality, incorruptibility and eternal companionship with Deity are only extended to those acknowledging the divine provisions that now exist for finite created beings and living creatures to undergo permanent change.  Divine operations must be completed that include atonement, baptism, death, forgiveness, promise, prophecy, rebirth, repentance, resurrection, and sanctification. 

(2.)  Just as one can not achieve a place in heaven simply by serving as one who provides emergency medical assistance, a firefighter, a law enforcement officer, elected officials, and sanitation workers can not gain or win a place in heaven simply by their employment as guardians and protectors of their community.  Following the completion of judgment, these peculiar roles will not exist upon the earth, or within the Holy City, the New Jerusalem.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  As an aspect of the character, makeup and nature of divinity, the work of judgment has always existed—even before the creation of holy angels and the sacred beasts of heaven—and will continue after all mortality has been completed and removed.   No one will be accused by GOD, by Christ, or even by the Devil.  Ones record within the books of life is examined in detail because, a person’s invisible and unseen spirit content from the makeup of GOD only becomes completely visible to their peers (who are to be witnesses to judgment as the revelation of divine righteousness) through attitudes, behavior, and conduct by the living.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/13/2015) Was David a “Good” Man?

Today, King David of Israel is described as a figure in Scripture who provides multiple examples of ongoing divine processes for the salvation of mankind.  Instead of labeling David as “good”, it is probably more correct to speak of David as “Joe Average” and an “everyman ordinary person” like Job, who depicts intimate relationship with GOD as “chosen”,  “forgiven”, “just” (we say, justified by GOD) and “redeemed”.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using “Charlie” as their ID (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since September 06, 2013) posted the following:


What did David do in the Bible?

The song "Carry my soul" by Phil Wickham sings "chasing my heart like David did" What did David do to show us he was chasing God's heart? What were his qualities - was he a good man of God?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:   Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.  The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.  And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness.  And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot.  And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.  And afterward they desired a king:  and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.  And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave their testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.  Of this man’s seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:  (Acts 13:  16-23, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  GOD Speaking Through Songs? (11/01/2013); The Golden Age? (01/10/2013); Translation, Please… (01/11/2013); The Root of Jesse (01/03/2013); Newness of Spirit? (01/04/2013); The Firstborn, Higher than Kings? (12/18/2012); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012); The Priesthood of Kings (10/17/2012); Childlike Faith (10/18/2012)


“Charlie”, Christians are taught to understand that only GOD is “good”.  Even so, here are a few points to consider that are important for correct knowledge of the Bible record that shows how GOD is revealing divinity to mankind:

(1.)  David was a divine instrument used by GOD to demonstrate the process and workings of divinity such as anointing, forbearance, forgiveness, incarnation, judgment, praise, promise, repentance, and sanctification.  David established practices and standards that determined the course of both sacred and secular history for Israel.

(2.)  David was used in roles as a brother; a son; a caretaker of livestock (we say, herder, pastor, shepherd); a composer of hymns, liturgy, psalms and sacred music; a covenant partner; an heir of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; a champion, a giant-slayer, a hero, and a leader of battles; a therapist; an adopted son of a king; a husband and son-in-law; a friend; a companion to a prince; a fugitive; a marauder; a king and founder of a royal dynasty; a judge; a parent; a patriarch; an adulterer; a murderer; a mourner; an High Priest who established the course for service by the Levites within the Tabernacle; the one who provided the initial materials and plans for the Temple; a prophet and divine spokesperson; a sinner; an ancestor of Jesus Christ; and the father who reigned as king at the same time his son (Solomon) reigned as king.  The life of David was to depict the operations of faith in youth, adulthood, and even old age. 

(3.)  Unlike Adam and Eve who abandoned GOD when tempted and disgraced through the operations of sin, David repeatedly returns to GOD through praise, prayer and submission.  David brings into view aspects of salvation that include atonement, divine grace, joy, the attainment of perfection by continuing growth, rebirth, and permanent change.

(4.)  David suffers in spite of his fame, his military genius, his physical prowess as a warrior, his skill as a monarch and political figure, his wealth.  David would endure conflict, conspiracy, betrayal, disrespect, and civil war, the loss of his favorite son, in addition to the death of an infant.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  While Saul was king of Israel, the Ark of the Testimony that served as the judgment seat and throne of GOD among the Israelites was captured by an enemy nation, and separated from the Tent of Meeting (we say, the Tabernacle).  The priesthood became cursed, and the use of objects from the regalia of the High Priest (ephod, Urim and Thummim) became awkward.  When David wanted counsel from GOD, he often relied upon seers who served as personal advisors.  Having built a palace for himself, David also burned with a desire to restore the Ark to Israel so it would be nearby, and would be maintained within an enduring house of GOD, and lasting place for his Holy Name.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/25/2014) Asked to Carry the Cross?

Duty, love, unselfish service to GOD, and the “Gethsemane point” are in view, today.  (No BATTLE AXE appears.)  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Andrew” (Level 4 with 2,636 points, a member since January 09, 2011) posted the following:


Asked to be a godparent but don't want to be? 

The baptism is for my niece and nephew . At the time i felt obliged to say yes, but now i realize i dont even want to go to the baptism let alone be a godparent. The baptism is this Sunday, i dont know what to do now. I am not even a religious person in fact i cant stand it ( no offence intended ) Most of my family are religious though. I dont think it be right either for me being none believer to be a godparent, and i think it be unfair on my niece and nephew.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.  And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.  But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?  And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?  Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not.  So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.  (Luke 17:  5-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  What GOD Demands (05/10/2014); The Body of Moses (05/11/2014); The Obedience of Jesus? (04/15/2013); Why Would GOD Worry About Us? (04/16/2013); The Passion at Gethsemane (03/28/2013); Separated and Sealed? (03/29/2013)


“Andrew”, even reading and responding to questions here at “Yahoo! Answers” is a dangerous and difficult task that many only respond to willingly because they accept it as their duty from GOD.  Here are a few points I hope you will find helpful that may make a positive difference for your life as a Christian:

(1.)  When Jesus and his apostles had completed their last Passover meal together with the initiation of the Lord’s Supper and the ordinance of foot washing, the Savior became overwhelmed with the thought of his ministry on earth being ended by the cross.  When they went to the place where they were to be encamped for the night, Jesus approached the Father in prayer to ask that his death be delayed.  Jesus had reached and would have to endure an emotional, psychological, and spiritual agony that we now refer to as a “Gethsemane point.”  Is that where you are?

(2.)  Duty and service to GOD are not a matter of ones ability apart from GOD, ambition, experience, personal pleasure, self-promotion, skill, or talent.  There are things a believer must do—like it, don’t like it—that absolutely must be carried out.  While completing our sacred duty may provide special benefit to family, friends and loved ones, the simple tasks we are challenged to carry out often pertain to maintaining divine order for earth, heaven, and the entire universe as well as the continuum of eternity. 

(3.)  Born again, all believers must “grow up” again by meeting life challenges upon the earth.  Believers are encouraged, instructed, and supplied to answer one another with love (we say, unselfish surrender), and respond to GOD with total commitment.  Examples from Isaac quietly waiting upon an altar to be struck by his father Abraham to that of Jesus at Calvary demonstrate the maturity we are to acquire wherein we obey and discharge duty no matter the cost (we say, the sacrifice, the suffering).

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Asked to be accountable, asked to be responsible, asked to be shown up by the many other people whom you account more worthy than yourself, asked to take the risk of being more than just a bystander, pride makes most of us hesitate.  The “hero” in a crisis is a person who was committed to doing their best before the emergency, or need for special assistance appeared.  Where believers refuse to participate or share in any given role of ministry, it always should be only because it would damage or interrupt their other ongoing commitments to GOD.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/10/2013) Not Even Sorry?

My older brother Howard’s birthday is today, my older sister Barbara’s birthday, tomorrow, while my younger sister Cheryl celebrated another year toward the first part of March.  Forgiveness and grace are in view, today, along with more on accepting limits set by GOD.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “K” (Level 4 with 4,422 points, a member since June 12, 2010) posted the following:

How can you forgive someone who is not even sorry?
And not only that, but blames you for what they did?
I feel it is best just to separate myself from such people.
What is your view on this?

Additional Details
No actually, it's very right. The Bible talks a lot on forgiveness.

THE BATTLE AXE:  Wanting to Have Our Way (03/09/2013)—As children we often enjoy stories of heroes that have “super powers” allowing them to do fantastic deeds.  We wish that we ourselves could see through walls, run as fast as the speed of light, or fly without the aide of machinery.  Even so, most children accept that having such skills are not truly part of human reality; and we are not discouraged from doing the best we can to fulfill our own human potential for becoming a respected adult.  Similarly, Christian believers must acknowledge limitations of both divine and human reality whereby created beings and living creatures have a continuing place in the presence of Eternal GOD.  All human beings are not in the same peculiar relationship to the Creator as sons and daughters, and children of GOD.  Standing and status as those adopted, reborn, redeemed or saved is granted only to those containing and embracing Jesus Christ within their own awareness and spirit person.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But ye are they that forsake the LORD, that forget my holy mountain, that prepare a table for that troop, and that furnish the drink offering unto that number.  Therefore will I number you to the sword, and ye shall all bow down to the slaughter: because when I called, ye did not answer; when I spake, ye did not hear; but did evil before mine eyes, and did choose that wherein I delighted not.  Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry: behold, my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty:  behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed:  Behold, my servants shall sing for joy of heart, but ye shall cry for sorrow of heart, and shall howl for vexation of spirit.  And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen:  for the Lord GOD shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name:  That he who blesseth himself in the earth shall bless himself in the God of truth; and he that sweareth in the earth shall swear by the God of truth; because the former troubles are forgotten, and because they are hid from mine eyes.  (Isaiah 65:  11-16, King James Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Unless You Repent (03/05/2013); The Childhood of Jesus? (03/06/2013); Does Everyone Go To Heaven? (10/28/2012); Magick and Prayer? (10/29/2012); Father Forgive (09/06/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012); Apostasy Forgiven? (08/15/2012); Scriptures To Reassure (03/05/2012); To Save Jesus? (03/12/2011); Having Life? (03/13/2011); Forgiveness? (12/07/2010); Conspiracy? (12/08/2010)

Mature Christians understand that bestowing and expressing forgiveness are operations from the Spirit of GOD, and are not motivated by (1) feelings of affection, compassion, fear and guilt; (2) close relationship with or detailed knowledge of another person’s motives, their past, or their future; (3) determinations and outcomes of truth-finding (i.e., judgment).  Forgiveness proceeds as an operation of grace through faith and may appear because one is in obedience, sympathy, or spiritual understanding.  Those who seek forgiveness must also practice forgiveness.  (See Ephesians 2:  8-9, Mark 11:  26, KJV.)

As a spirit substance that resides within Almighty GOD, forgiveness is inseparable from such aspects of Divine Person as faith, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom and wrath against sin.  Forgiveness does not itself eliminate sin; however, forgiveness can be regarded as a peculiar sacred seed that, once planted, encourages spiritual awareness, change, growth and learning in accordance with divinity and righteousness.  Forgiveness has power by operating along with such supports as rebirth, repentance, and sanctification that result from the presence of the Holy Spirit. 

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, upon the cross—before anyone made apology, petitioned, or prayed for forgiveness—Jesus asked that forgiveness be shown to those who had opposed him calling for his death.  Following this example, Stephen (one of the first seven deacons of the early church) became the first Christian martyr, and further sealed this practice along with confession as an aspect of the last rites for believers, and the way Christians go to their deaths (see Luke 23:  34 and Acts 7:  60, KJV).  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/05/2012) The Adversary?

      The identity of Lucifer/Satan is considered again, and there is more on the Judge Samson and King Saul. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Pantheist Green Nature” (Level 1 with 3 points, a member since October 31, 2012) posted the following:


Arn't Lucifer and Satan supposed to be? buddies?

Satan works for god, as? a tester, or purger. he would appear to the sinful


THE BATTLE AXE: Hero or Zero? (12/04/2012)—Many of the lives detailed in the holy writings are opened to readers as parables and object lessons. Thus, applying one of the most useful methods for fully understanding the Bible, readers may see both Samson and Saul as types (i.e., figures who depict aspects of existence and varying relationships with GOD). As divinely appointed servants to GOD, both represent the rule of sacred law, and are symbols of Israel as a covenant nation. Accounts of their lives provide admonition and warnings against sin, and further make visible the destructive influence of sin upon the self-will of created beings and living creatures. While serving in righteous judgment from GOD, Samson and Israel were invincible. When not in service to GOD, Samson was merely a whoremonger, who could be manipulated to give up secrets by a woman’s nagging; and Israel was merely another secular state caught up in the ambitions and lusts of men. The reign of King Saul is marked by abuse of authority and malfeasance in office that negate the signal military victory over the Philistines and their champion Goliath of Gath. The man (Saul) is shown in infirmity, madness, and weakness upon the earth seeking to annul the judgment of GOD against himself, rather than abdicate, repent, resign or surrender. Like Cain, who slew his brother Abel, Samson and Saul expose the impotence of every priesthood alienated from GOD and his Christ.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say unto him, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty. Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created. Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee. (Ezekiel 28: 12-15, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Partnership? (11/05/2012); To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012) Sin Unknown? (10/10/2012); When Prayer Works (10/11/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012); Coveting the Throne (03/07/2012); Too Many Interpretations? (03/08/2012); Girdle 32: Worship GOD (12/17/2011)


      Consider the following:

      In the Bible, many figures and names are used to describe one of the two covering cherubs who appeared before the judgment seat of Almighty GOD. As described by the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25: 20 and Psalm 18: 11, Psalm 91: 1, King James Version), the two angelic beings were the only visible manifestation of divinity displayed before the host, and the divine presence was to be known by faith, not by sight. The first of these two is held to have been the Son of the Highest, called Michael, and the second is the one that was called Lucifer.

      The problem of sin is understood as having first arisen in heaven through Lucifer, who secretly began to challenge and question the proclamations of GOD. Lacking eternal omniscience, and not having full knowledge of divine intent and sacred purpose, Lucifer spread the notion that holy beings had no need of divine law that would limit, punish, remove, restrict, or extinguish transgressors. Using deceit and disguise, Lucifer and his companions campaigned among the angels and holy beasts of heaven. Law (in fact, divine utterance, and the expressed will of GOD), was maligned as disruptive, intrusive, oppressive, and unnecessary.

     Lucifer was given no authority in the creation of the Temple in the heavens, the creation of mankind, or the creation of the earth. When he appeared in the Garden of Eden as a marvelous and unique creature (a winged serpent that could speak), Lucifer used subtlety to introduce the same corruption of self-will that had spread among the heavenly ones.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, all created beings and living creatures are subject to the will of GOD, and continue as tools of divine purpose that include the revelation of divinity. Angelic beings are neither mortal nor immortal; and do not attain to the fullness of being and purpose residing within the GODhead expressed as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Lucifer is known upon the earth as Satan (the Adversary) and the Devil (one who slanders). The Bible records that Satan confronted Job, Joshua the High Priest, and Jesus. However, Satan has no authority in final judgment to accuse, command, control, or condemn anyone to the second death. Like mankind, Satan continues in the earth only through dispensations of grace, mercy and righteousness from Almighty GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/04/2012) Hero or Zero?

      Both a judge and a king of Israel are in focus as “Bible heroes” (Samson and Saul, respectively), and there is more on how we, today, may see Jesus serving the poor. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer, “the Olmec” (Level 2 with 603 points, a member since October 8, 2012), posted the following:


Why was samson such an idiot and yet he is considered a hero and not Saul?

Saul who was the king of Israel and samson were both similar idiots,but samson is considered a hero in the bible.


THE BATTLE AXE: On Seeing Jesus Serve the Poor (12/03/2012)—Those whose hearts and minds are hardened against GOD are “blind” as were the adversaries of Moses; and no way exists for them to see what GOD presents of himself “in plain sight.” Not only did Pharaoh and the men of Egypt refuse to acknowledge that the Holy One was present and active among them, they also refused to believe that GOD was working through Moses as his agent and spokesperson. When all but two from the army of Israel (Joshua and Caleb) denied the apparent truth that GOD was present and active among them, and repeatedly denied Moses as a visible agent of the Most High, GOD proclaimed they would die in the wilderness, and that he would fulfill his word to them by blessing their children and grandchildren, who were their lawful agents and substitutes. The problem is not that GOD has abandoned mankind, or is no longer present upon the earth; it is that, to see the image of GOD, that in fact is visible through one another, men must use vision that is an operation of faith, and not any organ of the flesh. Sacred content, godly function, and divine process must be their focus; and divinity is acknowledged by its resonance with the power of ones own inner spirit. Those who “see” do not look for carnal, material and social phenomena. They realize connection, wholeness, and unity among beings, events, purposes and sacred substance. The holiness for many spirit-filled acts that comfort the poor remain unrecognized because there is no display of ceremonies, costumes, and rituals; and they do not center upon giving food, clothing, money or shelter. For many who viewed the viral photo of the NYC police officer giving shoes and sox to a homeless man, an observance of Christ’s Passion and Crucifixion was shown, the act of humility (called foot-washing). By sharing their endowment of such gifts as humility, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin, believers and the poor are able to see, follow Christ, and enter the Promised Land that is the Kingdom of GOD.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king. And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. (1st Samuel 15: 22-24, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Thoughts Upon A Warrior’s Fall (11/15/2012); The Slave to Law and Sin Made Free (11/16/2012); Childlike Faith (10/18/2012); The Priesthood of Kings (10/17/2012); Lion of Judah (01/10/2011); Known by GOD (10/16/2010)


      For many mature Christian believers, Samson son of Manoah and Saul son of Kish are both tragic heroes after the morbid fashion of Greek drama, as opposed to role models and “pillars of faith.” As a divinely promoted judge for the still developing covenant nation, Samson was to serve as a deliverer, one who would be a visible expression of divine wrath against their enemies, and who would recover the people of GOD from bondage and servitude. As a divinely anointed king, Saul was to serve as the highest judge and leader within the covenant nation, who would intercede to resolve disputes, and defend their common interests. Neither of these men were called to serve as priests, those consecrated to make the sacrifices of atonement that would secure the divine covenant before GOD.

      While Samson was prepared for service by his parents through a strict upbringing and continuous devotion to GOD following a “miraculous” birth, Saul’s preparation to be king was primarily through examples from surrounding nations. Not surprisingly, much of Samson’s behavior appears as arrogance, disobedience, hubris (i.e., pride), and the rebellious, self-promotion of a youngster who wants to throw off authority, duty, and parental restraint. By contrast, Saul first behaved as one who lacked ambition, however, had no self-confidence or sense of duty. When called to the public ceremony that would affirm him as king, Saul hid himself with the baggage handlers.

      Saul did not begin his administration as did Solomon by humbling himself to GOD. Almost immediately, Saul was given his first “test” as the new king, and had to rally the armies of Israel for the defense of a city, Jabethgilead (1st Samuel 11, KJV). So to speak, Saul’s kingdom was begun through warfare, and that set the pattern for all that would follow. When commanded to carryout divine judgment against the Amalekites, Saul’s behavior displayed arrogance, disobedience, hubris (i.e., pride), idolatry, rebellion, presumption and, finally, witchcraft.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, images in action movies and popular culture often describe a man’s struggle to achieve romantic, political and social goals as heroic. However, given such purposes depict only issues of material reality, self-will, and social process, viewers receive little spiritual instruction or nourishment for their indwelling Spirit from GOD.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC