(02/27/2020) Spirit Process and Substance

Today, reply is on Spirit as the process and substance for Christian belief, rather than the frameworks of mechanical and natural law; time and space; or intellect, logic, and carnal reason. GOD is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible, however, divine authority, influence and power are to be acknowledged by believers that express divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The full glory and power of Jesus Christ are yet to appear and be manifest among mankind because they must be apprehended through Spirit. The Creation of heaven and earth are now in a season of grace that allows repentance, rebirth, and new life through the resurrection of Jesus. Rather than a system to focus ones intelligence, recall, and thought, Christian belief is a system to focus growth and transformation of ones indwelling spirit through such operations as acknowledgment, commitment, discernment, joining, service, and the exercise of self-will (willpower) in conformity. It is written: 1^st John 4: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appeared) posted the following:

Why do Christians exempt God from the logic they impose on our own existence ?

Do they not understand this is special pleading? Christians argue that our intelligence and the general complexity of our existence demand an explanation that can only lead to the existence of their God. But God, an entity that would be even more intelligent and complex doesn’t need an explanation for its own existence. God is “eternal”, as if that phrase somehow exempts God from the very logic that is imposed on our own existence. It’s special pleading.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (Isaiah 55: 6-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Miracles and Christian Belief (01/30/2020); Not Impossible With GOD (01/06/2020); From Purpose and Substance (12/27/2019); Only Divine Resurrection Saves (12/24/2019); I Am So Satisfied (12/18/2019); More Required Than Crucifixion? (12/10/2019); The Tools Of Divinity (12/09/2019)

“Anonymous”, Christian belief is not the product of operations by the intellect, the mind, and other aspects of the flesh; rather, there is the joining of divine spirit matter to the same sacred content that exists within the living. Sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ are not simply given academic instruction; challenged to apply logic, carnal reason, and critical thinking; or guided in using finite human tools such as history, philosophy, science, and secular knowledge. Those who come to GOD must undergo a transformation of the life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; word) imparted to mankind at Creation from the makeup of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). As developing Christians, sinners are to acquire the sacred knowledge (definitions, meanings, operations, values) whereby divinity makes themselves knowable, known, accessible, and approachable. While GOD is active presence, and the process and substance of GOD is spirit, divinity has used multiple sacred events to communicate with the living on the earth. Included are birth, death, expectation, forbearance, forgiveness, Incarnation, judgment, prayer, praise, promise, prophecy, reconciliation, repentance, resurrection, and sanctification. As vessels containing divine DNA (so to speak), the living are to display the image of GOD as offspring and sacred heirs; and are to resemble, reflect and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Those who are “born again” receive a fresh endowment of such inseparable aspects of divine fullness as balance, commitment, completeness, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin). Even so, through discovery, gradual growth, learning, practice, study, unselfish service, and suffering, developing believers must mature and ripen for harvest by the Lord at his appearing (we say, Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Numbers 23: 19, King James Version (KJV): 19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

(2.) John 4: 24, KJV: 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://youtu.be/HlYp5ek4I4E.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:23 AM, February 27, 2020 @ https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&id=544F12EDB97CFC3C9B99866978485F0FAADDD551&thid=OIP.KKiyjv3RNs-gx0K441QPUgHaHa&mediaurl=https%3A%2F%2Fi0.wp.com%2Fstacyontheright.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F01%2FFacebook-Live-Bible-slides-3.png&exph=800&expw=800&q=Eph+1+17&selectedindex=59&ajaxhist=0&vt=0&eim=1,2,6

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/05/2019) Divine Spirit Within Animals?

A depiction of Abraham like Adam receiving a ram from GOD to be offered in sacrifice for sin in place of his heir.

Today, reply is on the need among animals to read the Bible, and to receive prophecy, revelation, and sacred knowledge. Animals have an innate consciousness of GOD as part of their makeup and substance. Human beings have no reason to doubt that animals also can apprehend and respond to the operations of divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Animals are an appearance and manifestation of the sovereign will of GOD as Creator. Mankind was fashioned and formed by the divine hand, and completed using life essence from the Creator (we say, breath, spirit, word). The beasts and living creatures appeared as acts of GOD when spoken and uttered into existence. While animals continue in covenant relationship with divinity from the times following their deliverance on the ark of Noah, their survival does not depend on their finite intellectual skills and traits. Mature Christians readily accept that the animals gathered to the ark did so in response to promptings by the Holy Spirit, not the preaching of Noah; the ravens who fed the prophet Elijah at the brook-side, were commanded and guided by GOD; and the lions who demonstrated divine restraint while the prophet Daniel was present within their lair acknowledged the divine Creator and Maker. Our pets (and we ourselves) operate as having animal intelligence that includes consciousness, emotions, empathy, instinct, and intuition; and many display an ability to communicate among themselves. Even so, languages and literacy as seen among mankind has not been observed and reported among the many beasts living on the earth. It is written: Romans 8: 22-23, King James Version (KJV): 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answer” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Night city light” (Level 2 with 253 points, a member since August 20, 2019) posted the following:

Why is Bible only for humans, why can't animals read Bible, does that mean other beings are less important in God eyes?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; (Colossians 1: 19-23, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Was Creation A Failure? (05/13/2019); How Did Noah Know? (10/14/2018); Multiply, Replenish and Rule (08/27/2017); A Species of Animal? (01/31/2017); The Covenant of Noah? (12/16/2014); Atone, Judge and Replenish (12/17/2014); Animals Do Not Sin? (09/29/2013); GOD is Acknowledging (09/30/2013); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013); Believers and the Cross (06/24/2013)

“Night city light”, angels and animals are not “living souls” within the Creation, and their needs for divine process and sacred knowledge are not the same as that among humankind. Only mankind is challenged to communicate, exchange, and interact with divinity by having the same awareness and sacred knowledge granted to Adam, and given to them in the form of life essence (breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD. Because animals were put forth having aspects of the same inseparable spirit content, they also respond to the Maker as authority, power, active presence, and sovereign will, however, they do not relate as offspring, or sons and daughters of GOD. The primary focus of divine judgment is the presence and expression of spirit content from GOD. Human consciousness and self-will (willpower) are to display spirit content and influence that go beyond emotion and feelings. The endowment of sacred spirit imparted to the living includes faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovinkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

While some people will show favor and disfavor to others because they are able to read and recite the things that are written in the Bible, our Father in heaven does not demand that all created beings and living creatures be able to quote from the divine law, memorize the advice and counsels recorded as Scripture, or read and write the full collection of documents, epistles, messages, and prophecies preserved as the Bible. Whether a person will be accepted by divinity, accounted worthy to be granted eternal life, and whether they will be approved as having meaning, quality and value as life companions to GOD depends on things that describe divinity more than on things that describe mankind.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, divine judgment and salvation go forward on the basis of the forgiveness, grace, impartiality, eternal purpose, and righteousness of GOD, rather than the flaws, infirmities, and sins of the living. The character, possibilities and potential of men and angels continue to be shown through behavior that is animal, human, or divine; and is often put forth as a mixture of the three. Finite human awareness and self-will can be determined by operations of sin—even though divinity has never created or put forth sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:30 PM, September 04, 2019 @ http://alittleperspective.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/gen-22-13-web-watermarked-1024x560.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/15/2018) Comparing Sacred and Secular

The Sermon of the Beatitudes (La sermon des béatitudes) 1886-1896 by James Tissot depicts Jesus teaching the multitude

Today, reply is on comparing sacred and secular knowledge, and the life tools of intellect and logic against spirit content imparted from the makeup of GOD.  Where a reader claiming to know science can not understand and process what I am presenting in this blog, I would not raise a question about their intelligence, however, I might well ask them to consider whether they have received the fresh endowment of divine spirit available from GOD through Jesus Christ.  Correctly understood, dialogue on Christian substance and belief is never one on self-promotion through “me, myself, and I” in place of focus upon GOD, whose character, nature and substance is exalted, immense, and sovereign.  Just as comparing and contrasting Jesus Christ with the other persons comprising divine fullness (i.e., the GODhead; the Father and the Holy Spirit) is foolish and unproductive, seeking to judge, impose hierarchy, and rank the Son of the Highest against other men because they have shared mortality with him is as useless as attempting to compare the greatness of two athletes in the same sport as different as basketball stars Shaquille O’Neal and Stephen Curry.  Their accomplishments, physical endowments, skills, strategies, and opportunities within a game always will be very different.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “STEVAN” (Level 1 with 59 points, a member since August 10, 2017) posted the following:

Was Jesus as intelligent as Stephen Hawking?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;  He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,  Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness:  from such withdraw thyself.  But godliness with contentment is great gain.  For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.  (1st Timothy 6:  3-7, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  His Suffering At Gethsemane (03/12/2018); The Coming(s) of Christ (03/11/2018); The Option of Atheism (02/11/2018); We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); Standards For Godly Behavior (02/01/2018); Sin No “One-time” Event (01/03/2018); Idolatry -- Exalting Human Devices? (09/21/2017)

“STEVAN”, although Christ and Hawking both have displayed authentic humanity recognizable by their endurance and overcoming of suffering (not by their imperfection); and both have served as teachers sharing views of the origins of mankind, the spheres of life, and the process of the universe, many Christian believers will argue that it is inappropriate to compare sacred knowledge against secular knowledge, the operations for achieving temporal goals against those for accomplishing eternal purposes, and the using of finite tools from mathematics, philosophy and science (e.g., analysis, contrast, logic, measurement, synthesis, discursive thought) against the sacred operations and divine substance required to endow mankind with eternal life (e.g.,  faith, holiness, longsuffering, resurrection from the dead, revelation, and sanctification.)

Practicing the circumspection and restraint that appear as godly wisdom among Christians, mature believers would shrink from the task of comparing (judging?) Hawking against Sir Isaac Newton, who has been lauded as “the most original and influential theorist in the history of science.”  (An entire branch within the field of Physics has been named for Sir Isaac.)  Even so, it is more correct to acknowledge the complementary of their distinct contributions, rather than introduce a vain condition (one that lacks spirit matter from the makeup of divinity) insisting on competition and rivalry.  Within the church of Jesus Christ, developing believers often have erred seeking to compare ministries of the Apostles, particularly, Paul and Peter.  Such focus is a distraction grounded in carnal, material and social earthiness.  It is more correct to acknowledge and affirm the appearance of the Holy Spirit within all the apostles, and their works.  Included should be genuine fellowship, love, and oneness without sameness.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Acts 4:  10-14, King James Version (KJV):  10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.  11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.  12 Neither is there salvation in any other:  for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.  13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.  14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

(2.)  Ephesians 4:  4-8, KJV:  4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;  5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,  6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.  7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.  8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

(3.)  1st Corinthians 12:  17-27, KJV:  17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?  18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.  19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?  20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.  21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee:  nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.  22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:  23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.  24 For our comely parts have no need:  but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.  25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.  26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.  27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.) 1st Corinthians 3:  2-9, KJV:  2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat:  for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.  3 For ye are yet carnal:  for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?  4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?  5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?  6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.  7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.  8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one:  and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. 9 For we are labourers together with God:  ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/02/2017) Christianity Is Not Mindless

 

Today, reply is made to the error that Christian belief primarily is intended for those who are simple-minded.  The good news of salvation is to be proclaimed even to those who are despised and poor; however, in no way are we to dilute the message or “dumb-it-down.”  The greater growth will be seen among those having faith and humility above those having title and secular knowledge.  Rather than on the basis of academic achievement, scholasticism, and intellectual sophistication, salvation in Christ is granted on the basis of divine grace, the desperate need of created beings and living creatures to be in a new relationship with divinity, and the willingness of sinners to respond to the Incarnate ministry of GOD.  Direct, plain and unadorned speech are most correct for delivering and marking instruction as  godly and sanctified, and as derived from a consecrated Spirit instead of from the flesh (i.e., appetite, sensation, emotion, imagination).  The  divine message may be simple because its power to change the makeup, nature and substance within the living is profound.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia)” who uses the ID “Anonymous” and refuses to share profile information, posted the following:


CHRISTIANS - Jesus hated intellectualism, saying that His message could only be received by the simple-minded. Is this because of the flaws?

Update:  http://strangenotions.com/top-10-tips-when-atheists-for-engaging-christians/


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard.  He answered and said, I will not:  but afterward he repented, and went.  And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir:  and went not.  Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.  For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not:  but the publicans and the harlots believed him:  and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him.  (Matthew 21:  28-32, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  On Being Too Smart (04/30/2017); Genuine Spiritual Discernment? (03/27/2017); Knowing What’s In Man (03/15/2017); Abstractions, Atheism and I.Q. (08/18/2016); The Cross and Critical Thinking? (04/13/2016); Academic Language? (12/10/2015); Knowing? (05/24/2015)


“Anonymous”, Christianity is one of the most challenging systems of belief and thought that has ever existed.  Many who disbelieve, and count themselves as “atheist” or “scientific” do so thinking they have higher intelligence, and that Christian belief is anti-intellectual.  More correctly understood, Christianity does not condemn exploration, growth, and learning.  Rather, Christian belief opposes death, hypocrisy, ignorance, pretension, presumption, exaggerated pride, and pseudo-intellectualism.  Along with the idolatry that appears when secular knowledge is exalted as equal or superior to sacred knowledge, many who follow human error will display self-promotion that denies the authority and ongoing operations of divinity.  They do not grasp the simple truth that sin does not exist as a material or physical thing, yet, sin has direction, effect, and presence.  The operations of sin may dominate awareness and self-will in living creatures and created beings.  By promoting annihilation and non-existence, sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the divine Law Giver, and the divine order that exists as the universe.  The notion that GOD prefers those who are emotional, ignorant or submissive is promoted only by those lacking discernment and their own integrity as born-again believers.  Consider the following from the holy writings:

(1.)  1st Samuel 2:  2-4, King James Version (KJV):  2 There is none holy as the LORD:  for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.  3 Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth:  for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.  4 The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength.

(2.)  Matthew 23:  13, KJV:  13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men:  for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.

(3.)  2nd Timothy 2:  12-16, KJV:  12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him:  if we deny him, he also will deny us:  13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful:  he cannot deny himself.  14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.  15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  16 But shun profane and vain babblings:  for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

(4.)  1st Timothy 6:  17-21, KJV:  17 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;  18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;  19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.  20 O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:  21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Ecclesiastes 12:  12-13, KJV:  12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished:  of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.  13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:  Fear God, and keep his commandments:  for this is the whole duty of man.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/18/2016) Abstractions, Atheism and I.Q.

Today, focus is upon atheism as an approach through formal studies to acquire and exchange secular knowledge in contrast to being in relationship through Jesus Christ to receive sacred knowledge by multiple operations of divinity.  The finite human tools of analysis, intellect, logic, and mental discipline alone have not been enough to release even the most brilliant thinkers among us from sin.  The achievement and fulfillment Christian believers speak of can not be obtained through arrogance, competition, ignorance, self-promotion, or superstition.  Spirit matter and divine process must come into consideration for they are the true sine qua non of wisdom.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Ette” (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since May 11, 2014) posted the following:

Does atheism elevate the IQ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:  When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years.  Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.  So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.)  Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.  But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.  For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;  While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.  For some, when they had heard, did provoke:  howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses.  But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?  (Hebrews 3:  8-17, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Rise in Atheism? (07/07/2016); The Cross and Critical Thinking? (04/13/2016); More About the Trinity? (03/30/2015); Foolish For Not Believing? (03/22/2013); Science and the Laws of Nature? (03/23/2013); How To Love GOD? (03/24/2013); The Price of Humanity? (12/13/2012); Remembering the Holocaust? (12/14/2012)

“Ette”, standard scores for a person’s intelligence reported as their IQ might well be increased through atheism, for atheism is a disciplined approach or framework for philosophical exchange that relies heavily upon carnal, mental, and social process.  Narrowing one’s focus to the material and natural order, atheism denies the metaphysical and suppresses focus upon divinity.  Even so, you can not separate the wet from the water.  Atheism must be regarded as useless as a tool to increase a person’s spiritual awareness; their ability to apply one’s own spirit to discern and respond to divine spirit within events, oneself, other persons, prophecy, etc.; their self-will (we say, will power); or their divine spirit content that should include inseparable elements such as faith, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Finite tools such as academic discourse, debate, investigation, mathematics, science and technology require focusing upon abstract, immaterial and invisible features, yet, do not permit operational definition of sin, its, elimination, and its removal.  (Thus, we have sinners who also have Ph. D. degrees.)  To develop an ongoing personal relationship with GOD who is a spirit requires a higher level of consciousness that must be imparted as life essence (we say, breath, spirit, word) from the makeup of the Creator.  The indwelling Spirit then generates the necessary system of meanings, standards (we say, divine law), and values.  Consider how some of this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Jeremiah 9:  23-24, King James Version (KJV):  23 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:  24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth:  for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

(2.)  2nd Corinthians 10:  17-18, KJV:  17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.  18 For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

(3.)  Romans 1:  18-22, KJV:  18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;  19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:  21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.  22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Titus 1:  15-16, KJV:  15 Unto the pure all things are pure:  but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.  16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/07/2016) Possible For Intelligent People?

Today, points are shared on the importance of applying ones intelligence for success in new life as a Christian believer.  More often than not, those who can’t be reasoned with and who express disbelief in GOD are responding to and relying upon attitudes, emotions, impressions, and misinformation, and have made no mature or thorough examination—that should include some time spent living life in the Spirit—for the claims of GOD in Christ.  Given the need for operations of the Spirit from GOD, for the Christian, academic skills, secular knowledge, literacy, and popular culture often are irrelevant, or of little value.  Even so, the formal methods, process and techniques for formulating life questions and securing practical answers continue to have value, and are vital.  Hear again the Scriptures, and consider the presentation below:

Deuteronomy 29:  29, King James Version (KJV):  29 The secret things belong unto the LORD our God:  but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.

Romans 12:  1-2, KJV:  1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.  2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Hosea 4:  6-10, KJV:  6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge:  because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me:  seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.  7 As they were increased, so they sinned against me:  therefore will I change their glory into shame.  8 They eat up the sin of my people, and they set their heart on their iniquity.  9 And there shall be, like people, like priest:  and I will punish them for their ways, and reward them their doings.  10 For they shall eat, and not have enough:  they shall commit whoredom, and shall not increase:  because they have left off to take heed to the LORD.

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.

Romans 8:  13-17, KJV:  13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die:  but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.  14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.  15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.  16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:  17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Spunky” (Level 7 with 169,355 points, a member since August 08, 2009) posted the following:


How is it possible for Intelligent people to be Christians?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:  Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.  Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:  In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:  Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.  And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;  Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;  And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.  (Colossians 2:  6-15, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why The Bible Makes Sense (09/19/2014); GOD and The Framework of Time (09/20/2014); Emotional Appeal? (04/02/2013); Life Given By Knowledge? (04/03/2013); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); Foolish For Not Believing? (03/22/2013); Science and the Laws of Nature? (03/23/2013); How To Love GOD? (03/24/2013)


“Spunky”, becoming a mature Christian believer can not be accomplished without correctly applying ones intelligence.  For the Christian, contemplation, dialog, and study are crucial.  Even so, the finite tools of logic, philosophy, science and technology are not enough to eliminate and remove sin from the earth.  Those who come to the Lord direct their awareness and self-will in a continuing process of growth and learning to acquire sacred knowledge as well as to nourish and increase their own spirit substance.  As a follower of Jesus, the born-again believer will encounter multiple issues having depth, range and scope upon a cosmic level that are characterized by subtlety (i.e., having barely visible differences, fine details, hidden shifts in meaning and value).  It is not impossible to gain a new and vibrant relationship with the Creator, however, such “new life” is only by the operations and provisions of divinity.  Those who are “born again” must go on to “mature again” by facing life challenges upon the earth.  In addition to rebirth that deposits spirit content from the makeup of Deity (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, wisdom, wrath against sin), disciples of Christ are to cooperate with authority, endure suffering, continue study of the holy writings, practice fellowship with more mature believers, maintain praise and prayer, sacrifice, and serve unselfishly.  The life and work of a Christian believer is by no means mindless, or rooted in ignorance, animal instinct, intuition, and superstition.  There are to be balance, focus, and eternal purpose.  Consider how this is stated in the language of the Bible:

(1.)  John 3:  6-8, King James Version (KJV):  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.  8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth:  so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

(2.)  1st Thessalonians 5:  20-22, KJV:  20 Despise not prophesyings.  21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.  22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.

(3.)  Psalms 119:  98-103, KJV:  98 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies:  for they are ever with me.  99 I have more understanding than all my teachers:  for thy testimonies are my meditation.  100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.  101 I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word.  102 I have not departed from thy judgments:  for thou hast taught me.

There are many other verses that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and made a part of ones spiritual treasure.  (For example, (4.) 2nd Timothy 2:  14-16, KJV:  14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.  15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  16 But shun profane and vain babblings:  for they will increase unto more ungodliness.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX Washington, DC

(09/12/2013) God Bless America?

    The accusation that GOD only blesses America is examined, today; and there is more on why GOD does not “tell all.”  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Johnny Three Tears” (Level 5 with 5,016 points, a member since March 27, 2012) posted the following:



Why does God only bless the United States?


If its the one true religion why is it that only the U.S. embraces it.



THE BATTLE AXE:  Why Does GOD Not Tell All (09/11/2013)—(5)  Dominated by sin and flesh (i.e., appetite, sensation, emotions and mental phenomena), created beings and living creatures do not correctly process sacred knowledge.  As with small children, their cooperation is often best secured through demonstration, direct action, and silence.  Repeatedly, when given information from GOD, the living have become overwhelmed by anger, bitterness, doubt, fear, self-examination, and uncertainty.  Animal and human intelligence are organized to fix upon differences, traits, and similarities among objects of focus.  Secular knowledge therefore centers in applying standards, calculating measures, and imitating or reproducing things created by GOD.  Facts and items that excite attention and appeal are categorized, grouped and inter-mixed as recurring patterns.  However, divine truth is being imparted to mankind that requires spiritual discernment, the use of divine substance to recognize and operate using only other material that possesses divine content.  For this reason we say, a person “must be born again.”  There must be change and transformation at every level of a person’s life process.  Included are imagination, inquiry, handling newness, recall, and experiences of ongoing thought.



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.  And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?  And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived:  for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near:  go ye not therefore after them.  But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified:  for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.  Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom:  And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.  But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake.  And it shall turn to you for a testimony.  Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:  For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.  (Luke 21:  6-15, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Godly Take on Guns (01/18/2013); It Is Finished (01/19/2013); GOD in Schools? (12/20/2012); Naaman the Leper (12/21/2012); The Crux of the Matter (10/26/2012); Mob Rule and Violence (09/27/2012); Suppose I Am Wrong (09/28/2012)



     Johnny, here are a few points shared among Christian believers that help us to recognize the righteousness of GOD as he operates, and uses various nations:


(1.)  GOD is a spirit, and must maintain relationship with created beings and living creatures through the spirit substance that makes up and establishes divine person as well as by using tools that respond to the finite frameworks of flesh, such as time and space.  Included among the inseparable aspects of divinity are faith, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom and wrath against sin.


(2.)  The many people around the world voicing anger, bitterness, covetousness, envy, fear, and hatred of the United States are not operating under the influence of their own divine content that was bestowed upon them by GOD.  They are moved by sin.


(3.)  The divine law states that to whom much is given, from him much will be required.  Where GOD blesses a nation (or a single individual) they are anointed and endowed to serve, and share with others.  They are stewards in the divine household; and what they appear to have is temporarily under their hand as if loaned to them by GOD. 


(4.)  Among believers, it is not required that every member have the same gifts and talents.  That a blessing is present with one, makes the blessing available and present for all.  Also, the tide lifts all ships; both the great and the small benefit as GOD blesses any one ship upon the sea.  Infidels, outsiders and unbelievers attack the people of GOD at every opportunity displaying hate, resentment and unbelief because they cannot comprehend of themselves, as mortals who must die, mankind may possess nothing.  GOD is sovereign; the earth is the Lord’s (Psalms 24:  1, KJV).


     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  For example, (5.)  Many Americans now reject the notion that the U. S. must serve as “leader of the Free World.”  America did not take up that mantle through a democratic election.  It was bestowed by grateful nations offering their encouragements and respect; and was won through the execution of difficult duties—things that absolutely had to be done (like it, don’t like it) despite the cost and losses encountered.  While America can name no successor among other nation states (Canada? China? Mexico? Russia? Syria? Venezuela?), presently, many Americans want to resign from the leadership role—or at least have a moratorium or sabbatical from the role of fifteen to twenty years.  Certainly, others would be placed under duress, yet present domestic needs of the American people appear to justify an isolationist attitude.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/02/2013) Putting GOD First?

The “wisdom” of attributing primacy to GOD is the topic, today. Also, there is more on heaven and the place of GOD. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “© Secular Humanist Pacifist ©” (Level 2 with 261 points, a member since May 3, 2010) posted the following:


Do you think there is more wisdom in putting others before ”your” religions god/s?

I put your in quotes since not everyone has a religion.

Additional Details

Truth is different to all humans, so there is no direct truth that exists except that ”everything changes”.

Victoria, your quote from a primitive culture has no relation to the question.

I disagree Witness, everything does change, you just don’t want your gods to change, you probably don’t even know what your god really looks like these days.


THE BATTLE AXE: The Place of GOD? (06/01/2013)—(6) The Tabernacle prepared upon the earth by Moses and, later, the Temple erected by Solomon were respected as a physical dwelling place and “house of GOD” that was to be in the midst of his covenant people, and to be surrounded by those in priestly service to GOD upon the earth. These man-made and temporary structures are spoken of as copies of things that exist upon a firmament, and platform of celestial presence not visible to mankind, yet, having identity, integrity, process, and substance. (7) Created beings and living creatures are to exist as receptacles and vessels containing divinity. The “breath of life,” “the spark of life,” and the “soul” are language to describe aspects of the divine make-up and person that establish mankind as having being and existence. This further permits the language that says, by their own choice, men themselves are to be a “spiritual house of GOD.” (8) A holy city (the New Jerusalem) now being created by GOD through Jesus Christ is to become the eternal place of divinity, and will exist upon the earth after the conclusion of “final judgment.” Once fully transformed and supplied with the divine nature, mankind will exist as immortal and incorruptible. Because divinity will co-exist with created beings and living creatures that are independent, yet, in unity with the divine, there will be no Temple, and worship will again be transformed. Even so, GOD will continue as exalted, supreme, and to be acknowledged by all who are righteous. (See Isaiah 66: 1-3, 1st Peter 2: 1-5, and Revelation 21: 1-27,  King James Version.)


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Sing unto the LORD, all the earth; shew forth from day to day his salvation. Declare his glory among the heathen; his marvellous works among all nations. For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the people are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place. Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness. Fear before him, all the earth: the world also shall be stable, that it be not moved. Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The LORD reigneth. (1st Chronicles 16: 23-31, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Illusion? (04/25/2013); Wanting To Have Our Way (03/09/2013); Believing Everything? (11/23/2012); The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012); The Spirit is Willing (10/20/2012); Spirit Matter (10/21/2012); Caesarea Philippi (10/22/2012); Binder 17: Awake to Righteousness (10/14/2011)


Here are some points to consider that agree with teachings from the Bible, and are in line with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and Christian belief:

(1) Belief systems that acknowledge divine being also call into awareness differences existing among the abilities, attributes, character and nature of all living creatures.

(2) Where a divine person is understood to have put forth created beings and living creatures (along with the context and sphere of their existence) a peculiar definition of “power” is established that goes beyond such finite human displays realized through deceit, emotion, forces of nature (e.g., floods, lightening, storms), lying, money, murder, passion, peer and social pressure, use of weapons, and violence.

(3) Awareness and acknowledgment of Divine Person as possessed of unique power, made up of substance that is in boundless supply, set apart and not readily detectable by human organs for sensation (hearing, seeing, touching, etc.) is in the nature of innate intelligence, and the continuous operation of sentient being (i.e., the capacity to knowing and be known) that are essential for communication among the living. More to be called “common sense” than “wisdom”, the knowing we speak of, here, does not derive from years of analysis, experience and study. Even so, awareness of the holy and invisible is not by animal instinct, argument, fantasy, imagination, intuition, logic, persuasion, or reason.

(4) Mature self-awareness, and an in-depth consciousness of human potential naturally establishes the primacy of GOD. This especially comes into appreciation as a multifaceted operation of GOD (i.e., revelation) whereby created beings and living creatures “discover” their own divine content; their possibilities for change, growth and transformation; their sacred purposes; and their dependence upon other actors having personness who remain unseen, yet are not just impersonal forces and mechanisms.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5) Sin that opposes consciousness of GOD may dominate self-will in created beings and living creatures. Sin is not created by GOD, contains no divine substance, and cannot influence divine will. Sin is no material having physical dimension, yet sin has direction, effect and presence. Where sin overwhelms the divine nature imparted to mankind, sin is obeyed and reverenced as a false god or idol.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/03/2013) Life Given By Knowledge?

      The importance of knowledge to the life of ones spirit is in view, today, along with more on emotion and feeling as aspects of Christian belief. The “Yahoo! Answers” Top Contributor using ID “daughtereponymous“” (Level 7 with 30,497 points, a member since May 18, 2010) posted the following:


Spiritually dead or alive which are you ? Hosea 4:6 many are destroyed for lack of knowledge do you have it ?


THE BATTLE AXE: Emotional Appeal? (04/02/2013)—(6.) The foolish opinion that Christian belief, and religion in general, are unmanly weaknesses because they encourage emotion and feeling, and therefore, should be left strictly to women and children is not put forth by the holy spirit from GOD. Conviction and faith identify every true champion, defender, godly leader, and righteous warrior. (7.) For mature Christian believers, choices and decisions are guided and organized by faith, law and such divine spirit substance as holiness, humility, righteousness, wisdom and wrath against sin. The instability of feeling, intelligence, logic, reason and self-will are replaced by frameworks of duty, sacred expectation (i.e., hope) and obedience. (8.) Even through science, human feelings are accounted as unreliable and untrustworthy. A person may control how they express or suppress their feelings; yet, when feelings will appear and the level of strength for ones feelings cannot be pre-determined, predicted, or repeated in exact detail. Also, there are no accurate and precise instruments to measure the power of feelings. For Christians, the better Rock whereupon we may build strong belief and understanding has proven to be divine doctrine, holy teachings, and an unchanging sacred spirit. (9.) In Christ, peace is not dull, lacking in energy, or having no excitement. The peace of GOD is said to “pass understanding” partly because his peace appears in the midst of struggle and turmoil. Divine peace shines against what appear to be the opposites of peace, and supplies great clarity, confidence, devotion, focus, purpose, serenity, strength, and zeal. (10.) GOD is love; however, GOD is more than human emotion and feeling. As divinity and pure existence—without dimension, form or number, yet having effect, person, presence, purpose, and substance—GOD is the origin of all being and life; and is fully capable of relationship with created beings and living creatures. Saying this more simply: GOD is a spirit; and we must worship him in spirit and in truth. See Psalms 31: 1-24, John 4: 24 and 1st John 4: 6-16, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. (John 14: 14-20, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: GOD Hiding in Plain Sight (03/26/2013); The Spirit and Pentecost (03/27/2013); Science and the Laws of Nature (03/23/2013); How To Love GOD? (03/24/2013); Bad Knowledge? (02/05/2011); Divine Evil? (02/06/2011)


      Dear “daughtereponymous”:

      Here are some thoughts that may be useful to you and your readers. 
 
(1.) Life and death for ones inner being depends upon their content (we say, “anointing” or “endowment”) of sacred substance from the makeup of Divine Person. The imparted, indwelling spirit of Christ makes “alive” to GOD, while dead to sin.

(2.) Such features as faith, holiness, longsuffering, love, wisdom and wrath against sin are permanent and unchanging aspects of divinity.

(3.) Secular knowledge (we also say “intelligence” and “science”), logic and reason are not spirit matter, and cannot increase, nourish or strengthen the divine nature within humankind. Similarly, emotion, feeling, and imagination that are vital to distinction as human persons, do not ensure the survival of ones inner spirit derived from GOD. Sacred knowledge must be continually received, internalized, and applied in carnal, material and social settings.

(4.) Sacred knowledge may begin with commandments and divine law; however, because the scale for grasp of life from GOD is cosmic, embracing the universe, ones knowledge must also embrace a broad range of sacred operations, spiritual processes, and eternal purposes.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) The mystery (special knowledge from GOD) once available only to the sons of Adam initiated in covenant as heirs to priesthood is now being shared as open revelation. Nonetheless, it continues that many are called, and few are chosen. See Isaiah 41: 8-10, 1st Peter 2: 5-10 and Revelation 17: 13-14, KJV.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/22/2013) Foolish For Not Believing?

Why spiritual disbelief is labeled as “foolish” is topic, today, along with more on receiving the body and blood of Jesus through Holy Communion. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Derrick” (Level 1 with 98 points, a member since March 20, 2013) posted the following:


Why are people considered to be foolish for not believing in God?


THE BATTLE AXE: Eat His Body, Drink His Blood (03/21/2013)—Through the acknowledgment of divinity in Jesus Christ, spiritual truth impossible to mankind’s limited focus upon flesh is brought into view and shown to have consistency, logic and weight for continued human existence. Ideas that more correctly describe the cosmic and universal possibilities of GOD can be carefully recognized, examined and tested; and the spiritual processes we speak of as “knowing GOD” go forward through action as well as awareness. For those having no denial, fear or superstition, the Lord’s Supper is no more cannibalism than the breastfeeding of an infant: the giving forth of life through one bond (the umbilical) is continued through another. The charge of “cannibalism” does not come from GOD and the Holy Spirit; and serves to describe expression of mankind’s animal nature, and the human fascination with death rather than life. The laws given the Jews as the covenant people condemned the eating of blood (the device that conveys life and is not itself the divine spark and spirit bestowing existence). Errors in recognizing the divine nature through obedience to sacred law continues among many, today, in the rejection of Jesus as a promised incarnation of GOD. Holy Communion promotes the complex understanding of existence apart from GOD while simultaneously being filled with GOD, and residing within GOD.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (Hebrews 10: 26-31, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012); GOD Does Exist (03/20/2012); Binder 34: Take My Yoke (10/31/2011); Binder 32: Those Yet Unsaved (10/29/2011); Dispatch 25: Comparing Spiritual Things (09/04/2011); All Paths? (03/09/2011)


Derrick, here are some thoughts that may be helpful:

(1) Believing in GOD requires a careful application of a person’s full humanity that we may speak of as knowing oneself, and experiencing life to its fullest. Every person displays emotional, mental, physical, psychological and spiritual dimension. Those willing to be satisfied with less than the best and less than the most are accounted as “foolish” because, there are multiple opportunities for change, growth and newness, yet, they cling to experiences of disappointment, fear, loss, and pain. Those believing that all the necessary knowledge for mankind may be found in such areas as finance, history, medicine, politics, technology, and science, fail to respect the spirit dimension of their own person. They exercise, feed and rest the body and mind, yet ignore the needs of their own spirit. Now, wouldn’t you say, that is foolish!

(2) Those lacking the blessing of Christian understanding, usually want to stay within a secular comfort zone, and, where it comes to GOD, are seeking “something for nothing.” Spiritual truth comes by association through spiritual principles and spiritual practice. Saying that another way: Spiritual maturity only comes by commitment, change and focus. More than simply using ones ability to analyze and pose questions or memorize and recall (what we term “using ones intelligence”), there must be contact with divinity through such features as acknowledgments, choice, praise, prayer, reverence, self-discipline, and submission.

(3) Truth and wisdom regarding divinity must be put forth from the Divine Person. It would be foolish for any created being or living creature to deny, ignore and oppose the legitimate claims of GOD upon their person as aspects of divine Creation. Yet, it is the operation of sin dominating self-will in the created to oppose the existence of divine law, sacred knowledge, the Holy, and all that is. The human need for a revelation of GOD, and right understanding of the human condition also derives from the truth that sin cannot be correctly detected and resisted apart from GOD.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, were there no answers and explanations from GOD, it might be correct to complain, to despair, or to do nothing. Yet, there is a comprehensive answer recorded as the Holy Bible that reveals Jesus Christ as the true foundation for all spiritual experience and knowledge. Included are truths regarding sin, death, judgment, forgiveness, rebirth, repentance, and eternal life.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC