(06/10/2020) Law And The Prophets

The image is from a frieze depicting the Law and the Prophets with Moses, Elijah and Joshua by John Singer Sargent

Today, reply is on “the law and the prophets” as described in the Scriptures. Through Adam and his sons who served as Patriarchs, a priesthood appeared that made atonement on the earth modeled after that in the heaven. The regular use of judges who would resolve conflicts and settle disputes by applying the law, and the ongoing use of prophets for admonition, guidance, and warning both would be established as part of the perpetual covenant of Israel began through Moses. It is written: Matthew 5: 11-20, King James Version (KJV): 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. 13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. 14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “andrew” (Level 1 with 100 points) posted the following:

how prophets are described ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2^nd Peter 1: 16-21, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why Is Passover Important? (03/01/2020); The Place to Start (12/23/2019); A Death Penalty Necessary? (11/27/2019); Moses Appearing Having Glory (11/25/2019); Prophets After Jesus Christ? (06/04/2019); How GOD Speaks Today (12/10/2018); The Priesthood of Adam (11/02/2018)

“andrew”, for many believers today, “the law” means the Torah, the Covenant of Moses, or the Ten Commandments; issues of correction, discipline, living routines, and punishment are foremost. While, “the prophets” mean the major and minor servants of GOD identified as messengers and spokespersons in the Old Testament writings. For Christian believers, “the law and the prophets” can be understood as the two earliest streams of divine revelation to mankind whereby divinity was made knowable, known, accessible, and approachable. The life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; utterance; word) imparted to Adam from the makeup of GOD included inseparable content from the divine fullness such as balance, consciousness, integrity, personhood, self-will, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The endowment of spirit from GOD is what Christians also call the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth. Transgression of the sacred law by the male and female pair disrupted divine order throughout the universe, for the divine law and its sanctions are immutable. Mankind became subject to imperatives within the law that require an utter destruction of sin that we speak of as the second death. Mankind presently is in a season of grace wherein, rather than interventions that display authority, dominion, and power to force and impose divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD, graphic and memorable displays of the character and nature of divinity (we say, the image of GOD) are being made that will allow mankind to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Those who become born-again also must grow-up again, and become mature and ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing. As vessels of divine DNA so to speak, the sons and daughters of GOD who are joint-heirs with Jesus are to develop through discovery, gradual growth, sacred practice, prophecy, unselfish service, study of the holy writings, and suffering. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

(1.) Exodus 20: 18-21, King James Version (KJV): 18 And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off. 19 And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die. 20 And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not. 21 And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick darkness where God was.

(2.) John 4: 23-24, KJV: 23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

(3.) James 5: 9-11, KJV: 9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. 10 Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. 11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

(4.) Revelation 22: 8-10, KJV: 8 And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. 9 Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellow-servant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. 10 And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E91OE5u1wA.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:40 AM, June 10, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMh8JxOFozc1Npx2SIXaDrzF9AQL_SuwVZyLM2Voxl7Iy4Y4AU3W6tELkUMWv0n7NwKHCxXi8QRGei0pU4Vi-hW19zfkiFrenG5d5U9nXlS8HmJbezTCsPHfbztPfii03NSIxQ_k70ONI/s1600/Central+panel+of+Frieze+of+Prophets+-+Moses+with+the+Tablets+of+Law%252C+fanked+by+Elijah+and+Joshua.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/16/2019) Unseen And Inexplicable Power

A depiction of Moses and the Lawgiver

Today, points on the Ten Commandments and sacred law are shared reflecting on a recent exchange with a former co-worker from the Library of Congress that is now posted on my pages at facebook.com. The excellence of sacred law is its origin as truth communicated and provided within personal relationships joining mankind to divinity. Divine law can not be received among those lacking faith and the other inseparable aspects of divine fullness imparted to mankind through the ministries of Jesus Christ. Included are forbearance, holiness, hope, humility, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The testimony must be acknowledged that the law was provided written on tables of stone by the finger of GOD, and has been spoken aloud by GOD to the multitude assembled at Horeb. It is written: Romans 7: 12, King James Version (KJV): 12 Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Consider the following:

Jack Schwarz The 10 commandments contain very uneven writing and should have been edited 4 better clarity. It always reads a bit like the product of a committee rather than a vision of perfecting life on earth. The fact that loving one another isn't in there is a big missing piece that Isiah and others tried 2 rectify. So when some crazy starts placing them on the court house lawn, I kind of wonder whether they've thought that hard about what they contain or have missed. jj

Michael Andrew Williams Keep in mind, there is a romance around many of these things that excuses all their flaws and inadequacy. Then again, more than merely increasing their charm, their rough edges introduce an otherwise unseen and inexplicable level of power. MAW

Jack Schwarz No romance here------no loophole 4 sloppy writing by committee. My particular bete noire is the honor thy parents one------should read honor thy family because honor flows both ways between generations and if it doesn't, a lot of grief ensues. The writers were smart enough 2 target things like murder, theft, adultery and false witness but somehow they missed this one which is often the source of all the rest.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise. (Galatians 3: 16-18, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Violating Commandments On Love? (10/13/2019); Kings, Popes, Priests, Prophets? (09/22/2019); Conflict Among Multiple Wills? (09/20/2019); Those Who Prefer Evil (09/02/2019); Self-will Is Not Law (08/23/2019); Blaspheming the Holy Spirit (05/08/2019); Divine Forgiveness and Justice (01/01/2019)

“Jack”, for someone who has thoughtfully used the volumes of U. S. Code as a reference work in making responses to the U. S. Congress, you may now be exercising some bias in your standard for “well written” legislation. The ancient fathers were not only challenged to engage a social structure unlike that within the One-world Empire of Egypt (where they hoped to assimilate despite all the Egyptians being chattel), they also were challenged to operate having new affiliation and identity as a state, rather than a collection of tribes having no political franchise within the slave-holding household of Pharaoh.

Among mature Christian believers, the Ten Commandments are received as an aspect of a full divine revelation that features the appearance of immortal, incorruptible, and invisible GOD using flesh and human form (we say, Incarnation) to further make the character and nature of divinity knowable, known, accessible, and approachable. The covenant law is not to be read only for its carnal, historical, material, moral, secular, and social focus; and the Ten Commandments are acknowledged as a testimony to the authority, dominion, righteousness, and sovereignty of divinity who stand together as Creator, Deliverer, Redeemer, Savior, and the provider of Eternal Life.

Immutable and unchanging law is to govern and influence consciousness and self-will within created beings and living creatures. The operations of sin dominate and paralyze awareness and willpower within the living. To illuminate the process and substance of existence and life are the end of the law, rather than merely the resolution of mundane and pedestrian quarrels among men on the earth continued by “he-said, she-said, and who-struck-John.” In addition to admonition, ordinances, regulations, requirements, rules, and warnings the law presents exalted personhood, principle, and wisdom. Sacred law makes apparent the divine presence through accuracy when presenting facts in tribunals of truth-finding; attention to detail (completeness; thoroughness); balance; impartiality; conclusive findings; and the authoritative ordering of punishment as well as by establishing records of offenses, determinations, and settlements that also will have the force of law. More than this, divine law conveys and imparts forgiveness, mercy and reconciliation. Consider again the following on divine law that uses language from the Bible, and the presentation from the music ministry of the King’s College Choir:

(1.) James 4: 11-13, King James Version (KJV): 11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?

(2.) Hosea 6: 4-7, KJV: 4 O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. 5 Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. 6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. 7 But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against me.

(3.) Isaiah 5: 13-16, KJV: 13 Therefore my people are gone into captivity, because they have no knowledge: and their honourable men are famished, and their multitude dried up with thirst. 14 Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it. 15 And the mean man shall be brought down, and the mighty man shall be humbled, and the eyes of the lofty shall be humbled: 16 But the Lord of hosts shall be exalted in judgment, and God that is holy shall be sanctified in righteousness.

(4.) Romans 10: 4, KJV: 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

(5.) Galatians 5: 16-23, KJV: 16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

(6.) Ecclesiastes 12: 13-14, KJV: 13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.)

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (7.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX1zicNRLmY.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:04 PM, October 16, 2019 @ menace-theoriste.fr/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Gebhard_Fugel_Moses_erh-C3-A4lt_die_Tafeln.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/23/2017) Sacred Judges and Laws?

Deborah Under the Palm Tree, Adriene Cruz -  JUDGES Chapter 4

 

Today, thoughts are shared on sacred judges, law, lawful process, and punishment.  While watching a broadcast of the inauguration, a secular ceremony pertaining to government officials, I was struck that, because our Nation does not formally acknowledge sacred law, no anointed judges or officers representing the kingdom of GOD were present as authorities to administer the oath of office as a sacred event (we say, miracle) to install the 45th President of the United States of America.  Our secular law demands no acknowledgment of divinity, yet, encourages and responds to faith in the homes and lives of millions of Americans.  Divinely appointed judges are entrusted to do more than merely announce doom, or express wrath against sin by declaring calamity, drought, and plagues.  They also are to make visible the compassion, discernment, goodness, forbearance, forgiveness, lovingkindness, mercy, righteousness, and wisdom of GOD.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “SupaStar” (Level 5 with 5,753 points, a member since August 07, 2014) posted the following:

 

Judges can sentence people from anything to a fine to death. Why does god only have one punishment for EVERY "crime", no matter how slight?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  The heathen are sunk down in the pit that they made:  in the net which they hid is their own foot taken.  The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth:  the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah.  The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.  For the needy shall not alway be forgotten:  the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever.  Arise, O LORD; let not man prevail: let the heathen be judged in thy sight.  Put them in fear, O LORD:  that the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah.  (Psalms 9:  15-20, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Installing The New President (01/20/2017); Divine Presence and Spirit (01/18/2017); Servants To The Body? (01/17/2017); Authority To Judge Us? (10/18/2016); All Have Sinned? (07/29/2015); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014)

 

“SupaStar”, the Creator is also a GOD of Judgment.  Unlike those who answer secular law, judges among men who apply and administer divine law should be understood as incarnations (appearances in flesh) of the Creator who continuously exists using spirit form.  As officials on the earth who oversee the resolution of conflicts and the settlement of disputes by applying the law from GOD, judges are instruments in sacred operations that, like the law, reveal the active presence of divinity and are expressions of the will of Deity.  Those who minister sacred law must acknowledge the sacred king who decrees and proclaims the law.  Therefore, instead of approval by some legislative body, they are carried through operations of the Holy Spirit to become anointed, consecrated, exalted, and sanctified (i.e., set apart for exclusive service to GOD).  The intent and purpose of divine law is to fulfill, put forth, and maintain all existence, order, and eternal purpose throughout the universe.  Just as there are multiple offenses against the law (e.g., adultery, idolatry, murder, stealing), there are multiple penalties for violation of the law (e.g., banishment and exile, confiscation of goods, fines, public execution), and there are multiple levels of transgression against the Spirit (e.g., betrayal, blasphemy, defiance, iniquity, rebellion).  The holy writings show, the many sanctions brought against transgression of the law (i.e., sin) are intended to bring about correction, repentance, and rebirth, rather than fear, loathing, and terror.  This includes mortality that was introduced as a continuing condition that must be completed by all flesh.  What is called the second death has been “passed upon all” only in the sense that it is conditional.  Just as Adam and Eve were cautioned and instructed about the required consequences for their actions before any disobedience occurred, the things of Jesus Christ and the cross all manifest the possibilities for righteousness in covenant and relationship with the Creator.  Consider the following:

(1.)  Exodus 20:  4-6, King James Version (KJV):  4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.  5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them:  for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;  6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

(2.)  Deuteronomy 16:  18-20, KJV:  18 Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes:  and they shall judge the people with just judgment.  19 Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift:  for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.  20 That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

(3.)  Deuteronomy 17:  8-13, KJV:  8 If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within thy gates:  then shalt thou arise, and get thee up into the place which the LORD thy God shall choose;  9 And thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites, and unto the judge that shall be in those days, and enquire; and they shall shew thee the sentence of judgment:  10 And thou shalt do according to the sentence, which they of that place which the LORD shall choose shall shew thee; and thou shalt observe to do according to all that they inform thee:  11 According to the sentence of the law which they shall teach thee, and according to the judgment which they shall tell thee, thou shalt do:  thou shalt not decline from the sentence which they shall shew thee, to the right hand, nor to the left.  12 And the man that will do presumptuously, and will not hearken unto the priest that standeth to minister there before the LORD thy God, or unto the judge, even that man shall die:  and thou shalt put away the evil from Israel.  13 And all the people shall hear, and fear, and do no more presumptuously.

(4.)  2nd Chronicles 19:  5-7, KJV:  5 And he set judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of Judah, city by city,  6 And said to the judges, Take heed what ye do:  for ye judge not for man, but for the LORD, who is with you in the judgment.  7 Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take heed and do it:  for there is no iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/18/2016) Authority To Judge Us?

Today, focus is on who has legitimate authority to determine the duration, purity, quality, and value of the living.  Divine law is “the expressed will of God;” and in the same way the pattern “ABC” foretells the coming of “XYZ”, sacred law proclaims the coming of divine wrath against sin, the second death, and the final elimination through judgment of all opposition to GOD.  There are many in society now who want to complain against various things they encounter in their lives.  They operate as if they are a “law unto themselves,” are bound only by self-will, and feel they are correct to be vocal about their own choices and opinions.  While it is reasonable for a person to speak their own private understandings of the truth, Christian believers are challenged to speak only in agreement with divine law, the holy writings, sacred promises and prophecy, eternal purpose, and the revelation of GOD through Jesus Christ.  Equal respect are to be shown to the underlying principles, process, and spirit of the law as well as to the determination, ruling, and sentence of the law.  It is written:  Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth.  My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass:  Because I will publish the name of the Lord:  ascribe ye greatness unto our God.  He is the Rock, his work is perfect:  for all his ways are judgment:  a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he (Deuteronomy 32:  1-4, King James Version, KJV).  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Corey” (September 15, 2015) posted the following:



True or False: Only God can judge us?



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God:  the powers that be are ordained of God.  Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God:  and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.  For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:  For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain:  for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.  Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.  For for this cause pay ye tribute also:  for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.  Render therefore to all their dues:  tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.  Owe no man any thing, but to love one another:  for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.  For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.  (Romans 13:  1-10, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Respect of Persons? (10/14/2016); Law, Vengeance, and Punishment? (09/30/2016); About Judgment By GOD (08/29/2016); Natural and Spiritual Law? (06/30/2016); As Agents of Divinity (06/12/2016); A Learned Council of Elders? (05/10/2016); Damnation And The Cross? (03/06/2016)



“Corey”, many mature Christian believers regard exercising sound “judgment” (assessing danger, risk, and threat; assigning value; using fixed standards to measure and acknowledge difference and sameness) as an essential gift from GOD, and a continuous and widespread “life process” for mankind.  All living must consider and weigh alternatives among such features as actions, meanings, opportunities, possibilities, and relationships.  As a response to divinity, “judgment” (applying sanctions expressed through sacred law that may include condemnation, correction, and punishment) appears as duty, obedience, and a revelation of divine will that also should show man to be made in the image of GOD, who has been revealed as a law giver, enforcer of the law, and judge.  As the application of divine law to resolve conflicts and settle disputes, judgment always restores balance, maintains divine order, and produces peace.  The authority of men in divine judgment is always only that of agents, representatives, and spokespersons who proclaim, carry out, and perform the will of the Maker, who is owner and sovereign ruler over all.  There are aspects of divine judgment that can be declared among men, yet, be completed and fulfilled only by divinity.  Thus, the fullness of GOD that includes wrath against sin eventually will be emanated, poured forth, and revealed without further restraint, or warning.  Consider again how some of this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 1:  13-17, King James Version (KJV):  13 Take you wise men, and understanding, and known among your tribes, and I will make them rulers over you.  14 And ye answered me, and said, The thing which thou hast spoken is good for us to do.  15 So I took the chief of your tribes, wise men, and known, and made them heads over you, captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, and captains over fifties, and captains over tens, and officers among your tribes.  16 And I charged your judges at that time, saying, Hear the causes between your brethren, and judge righteously between every man and his brother, and the stranger that is with him.  17 Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s:  and the cause that is too hard for you, bring it unto me, and I will hear it.

(2.)  Deuteronomy 16:  18-20, KJV:  18 Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes:  and they shall judge the people with just judgment.  19 Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift:  for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.  20 That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

(3.)  Zephaniah 2:  2-3, KJV:  2 Before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the LORD come upon you, before the day of the LORD’s anger come upon you.  3 Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness:  it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD’s anger.

(4.)  Deuteronomy 17:  6-12, KJV:  6 At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.  7 The hands of the witnesses shall be first upon him to put him to death, and afterward the hands of all the people. So thou shalt put the evil away from among you.  8 If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within thy gates:  then shalt thou arise, and get thee up into the place which the LORD thy God shall choose;  9 And thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites, and unto the judge that shall be in those days, and enquire; and they shall shew thee the sentence of judgment:  10 And thou shalt do according to the sentence, which they of that place which the LORD shall choose shall shew thee; and thou shalt observe to do according to all that they inform thee:  11 According to the sentence of the law which they shall teach thee, and according to the judgment which they shall tell thee, thou shalt do:  thou shalt not decline from the sentence which they shall shew thee, to the right hand, nor to the left.  12 And the man that will do presumptuously, and will not hearken unto the priest that standeth to minister there before the LORD thy God, or unto the judge, even that man shall die:  and thou shalt put away the evil from Israel.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  2nd Peter 3:  8-10, KJV:  8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.  10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/09/2015) To Study the Book of Judges

Cautions are shared, today, about academic instruction and secular study of the Bible.  Often, those who hold seats as college and university faculty are called upon to give instruction regarding doctrine and teachings from the Bible, however, because of the values for their discipline and field of inquiry, what they actually present to their students are arrogance, counterfeit righteousness, ignorance of sacred knowledge, pride and unbelief.  While many on our campuses now openly declare themselves to be atheist, it remains that, disbelief and doubt are more in the nature of incompleteness and pseudo-intellectualism than legitimate levels of intellect and genuine achievement.  Students are to be alert for those who presume to attack religion as the source of spiritual confusion and fanaticism, for by the standards given followers of Jesus Christ such persons are spiritually immature; therefore, they also foolishly accuse and condemn divinity as the cause of all cruelty, death, human error, malice, murder, suffering, viciousness, and violence.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Addison Mckinley” (Level 5 with 5,754 points, a member since December 23, 2010) posted the following:


Help with Judges!?
Hi everyone!

So in my theology class we will be discussing Judges starting next week. My teacher handed out a list of two questions to think about as we read Judges and discuss this particular section of the Bible. There are the two questions:
1. The Book of Judges is filled with excessive violence through the various stories. How are these stories intended to illustrate the beauty of God's covenant with Israel, which supposedly should override the violence of the story.
2. Compare and contrast violent stories in Judges with any other story in the Old Testament in order to show any similarities or critical differences.
I just want to sort of have a better understanding of Judges before we actually start reading it next week.

Thanks!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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:  17-23, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Right Place to Get Knowledge? (02/17/2014); Arguing Against the Bible in Church? (02/18/2014); Snake Handling? (02/19/2014); That We Might Know (01/07/2014); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013); Confusion 2013 (01/13/2013); GOD in Schools? (12/20/2012); Naaman the Leper (12/21/2012)


“Addison Mckinley”, because your teacher’s approach shown in the questions for discussion centers upon violence in the holy writings—rather than the character and nature of divinity, or the place of divine law, holy love, and judgment within the full process of divine revelation—the instruction you are likely to receive probably will not acknowledge the Book of Judges as a written history of sacred not secular events (i.e., actions taken by divinity; miracles), and the word of GOD.  Nowadays, it is not inappropriate, as class begins to ask your instructors to state their personal belief regarding the Bible, for it will alert their students to any possible assumptions (statements taken to be truth for the sake of discussion that may remain unchallenged, undocumented, and unsubstantiated), bias, subtleties (barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning and value) as well as unintended emphases that might later appear.  Often, teachers unknowingly operate as if speaking to unbelievers only.

Academicians repeatedly insist upon a neutrality and “objectivity” that allows dismissing the Scriptures as, themselves, a peculiar appearance of Deity.  The divine mind and an eternal perspective are shared using thousands of events occurring within thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years providing a base of sacred knowledge.  Study using tools for literary criticism and scholarly examination of the Scriptures often foster the idea that there is no spirit aspect of mankind that requires continuous cleansing, correction, guidance, healing, management, and nourishment by a sovereign Creator.  More than this, many  maliciously seek to condemn and deny divinity as cruel, heartless, and inhuman.

Even without the simple, yet, profound problem of sin, divine intent and eternal purpose require that finite created beings and living creatures must acquire correct knowledge of divinity through experiences of intimate relationship that are at once extreme and sublime (we say, asocial, non-material, supernatural).  Oral history and knowledge maintained by Adam (who lived nearly 1,000 years, a millennium, upon a pollution-free earth) and the other Patriarchs was amplified through covenant, and written law received and recorded by Moses.  A broad range of other divine responses have been provided including confession, contemplation, imparting spirit content through baptism, incarnation, praise, prayer, rebirth, resurrection from the dead, and sanctification.

Once within the Promised Land, following the death of Joshua, the manifest rule of GOD as King among believers was to be through the priests of the tabernacle, and the system of judges over 10s, 50s, 100s, etc.  Disobedience, idolatry, pride and the breakdown of the earlier mechanisms for discipline of the nation, called forth new roles as deliverer-judge, and judge-spokesperson (prophet).  This would finally result in the miraculous birth of Samuel, who is called the last of the Judges, and the first of the line of Old Testament prophets modeled after Moses and Joshua.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, one important approach to study from the Book of Judges is to respect the entire Bible as documenting a priesthood upon the earth patterned after that in the heaven.  Thereby, believers are able to grasp that Jesus Christ is installed as an High Priest to carry out the offering of gifts and sacrifices to GOD as well as performing atonement for the sin among believers.  The exceeding damage, filthiness and ugliness of sin against heaven is made clear by its appearance in the earth as habitual and repeated human error.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/15/2015) Justifying GOD?

Today, answer is made to an accuser assuming that babies and children are more righteous than GOD, therefore, divinity should be condemned for their deaths.  In the same way no one lacking a thorough knowledge of criminal law, courtroom procedure and trial process can walk in from off the street to preside over the tribunal for the accused Boston bomber, no mere mortal lacking ability to conceive and set into place divine order for a universe should presume to “rise from the dust” and think to serve as an acceptable judge against the Almighty.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “dodo” (Level 4 with 3,121 points, a member since November 19, 2014) attacked with the following:


Christians believes that none of us humans are innocent because of the original sin by adam and eve.?

is that just justify gods killing of babies and children


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.  For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.  Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called:  and whom he called, them he also justified:  and whom he justified, them he also glorified.  What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?  He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?  Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.  Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.  (Romans 8:  28-34, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Death Penalty for Sins? (11/30/2014); About “The Just” (10/29/2014); Antidotes to the Poisons (10/30/2014); A Culture of Judgment? (03/20/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); Wanting To Have Our Way (03/09/2013); Not Even Sorry? (03/10/2013); Of War and Judgment (01/08/2013); Heart, Brain or Spirit? (01/09/2013); The Common Danger (01/02/2013); The Root of Jesse (01/03/2013)


“dodo”, you seem to be registering multiple complaints against divinity, here, because 1) Christians might believe things you condemn; 2) you are not yet a Christian; and 3) you do not correctly acknowledge and apply the measure of Spirit from GOD residing within you.  Those who belong to Christ make no such accusations.  This raises questions on how complete and correct your sacred (not secular) knowledge may be.  (For example, many mistakenly think that “original sin” means sexual intercourse, and ignore the lack of faith, respect and trust shown by the first pair as having been the offense against divinity.)  To truly be in a position to condemn GOD, you would have to at least be more incorruptible, perfect, and righteous than he.

In your view, it seems to be wrong that GOD should preside and reign as a judge over his own Creation; and humans should exist as immortal.  Mankind should be exempt from all death, judgment, and punishment for sin.  While you and those having the same depth of understanding that you display are equipped and prepared in your own minds to establish life in the earth without conflict, sin, and warfare that derives from our animal makeup, it remains sin can not be eliminated using such finite tools as emotion, logic, money, persuasion, philosophy, science and violence.

In the same way you are not seeking to justify the existence of GOD (and could not if you wanted to), you can not justify the existence of sin and sinners (even where they are family and friends).  To accuse GOD of destroying babies and children through abortion, destruction of wicked nations (e.g., Amalek, Jericho, Sodom and Gomorrah) or sex trafficking, offers no solution to end what you are outraged by.  There would have to be a transformation of human substance, and the sphere of life for mankind that only divinity might accomplish.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and properly apprehended.  There now are multiple ongoing sacred operations to reverse the effects of sin.  Through the ministry of Jesus Christ upon the earth and from heaven, those who confess the need of permanent change from GOD are granted a fresh endowment of spirit matter from the makeup of Deity that permits believers to recognize and resist sin.  Included are faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, humility, joy, love, longsuffering, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  GOD will justify and glorify those who conform to the image of his Son.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/03/2014) His Authority in Judgment?

The nature of divine authority, deity, and judgment are considered, today.  Also, there is more on divine protection for believers.  A “Yahoo! Answers Canada” writer using the ID “Political Onlooker” (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since May 12, 2014) posted the following:


Will Jesus Christ Son of God have power and authority to send people to hell on the day of judgement (Revelation 13:8, 20:15, 21:8)?

John 5:22-23 -
22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: 23 that all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

John 5:27-30 -
27 and hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. 28 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29 and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. 30 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me


THE BATTLE AXE:  No Divine Protection? (10/02/2014)—(5.)  Christians attract evil only in the same sense that a tree having been placed upon a hilltop draws the wind.  All who live upon the earth must meet challenges, changes and differences, conflicts, and experiences of lack, need and want as the “normal” course of life established among mankind.  Similarly, to become permanently joined to divinity, all Christian believers must endure a measure of the same confusion, doubt, envy, ignorance, malice, persecution, and unbelief that Jesus encountered when he was upon the earth.  Even so, believers are not called into a conflict against material and social reality.  Because all Christian believers participate in a spiritual warfare, all are supplied with weapons that are not carnal (e.g., beauty, certainty, faith, foreknowledge, holy boldness, sobriety).  Granted a defense, justice, and justification that comes from GOD, Christian believers are protected by divine law, continuing fellowship with other believers, the armies of heaven, the promises of GOD, and the imparted, indwelling Spirit.  When commanded to sacrifice Isaac, the son of promise, Abraham was confident that all things are possible for GOD, and that—should Isaac be forced to complete mortality at that time—his son could be immediately restored by the Almighty, whose authority over death is no less than his authority over miraculous birth.  Consider again Psalms 94:  20-23, Psalms 7:  9-11, Proverbs 29:  25, Ecclesiastes 9:  2, Matthew 5:  43-45, 1st Corinthians 10:  13, 2nd Corinthians 10:  3-5, Romans 8:  13-19, 2nd Timothy 2:  11-13, 2nd Timothy 3:  12, Titus 2:  11-13 and 1st Thessalonians 4:  12-14, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  A man’s pride shall bring him low:  but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.  Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul:  he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.  The fear of man bringeth a snare:   but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.  Many seek the ruler’s favour; but every man’s judgment cometh from the LORD.  An unjust man is an abomination to the just:   and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.  (Proverbs 29:  23-27, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Fallen Nature? (09/01/2014); In the Likeness of His Resurrection (09/02/2014); Condemned by the Church? (08/19/2014); Principles of Correct Belief? (08/20/2014); The Bible is All About GOD? (07/27/2014); No Mystery in Lawful Judgment (07/28/2014); Divine Law for Mankind? (07/29/2014)


“Political Onlooker”, readers of the holy writings are to discern (i.e., use their own divine spirit content) to recognize and respond to the Holy Spirit contained within the Scriptures.  The carnal, material and social language expressions that appear often are only an indictor or suggestion for ones full spiritual understanding.  With that in view, consider these few points:

(1.)  In our courts upon the earth, the work of a judge, no matter the facts of a case, is to ensure that the procedures applied in judgment are all in accordance with the demands of written law.  Similarly, the role of judge for Jesus Christ is that of continuing divine order and life process in accordance with pre-established sacred law.  In the final judgment, Jesus does not alter, or contend against the awareness and self-will of angels, devils or humans (we say, argue, debate, dispute).  Christ acknowledges and affirms truth established by the living, and documented within divine books of life.

(2.)  The eternal purpose of GOD is not one of sending men to hell.  Yet, by their rejection of spirit content from GOD, men disqualify themselves from being eternal companions who may abide in the presence of GOD.  In judgment, Jesus and all assembled to witness will acknowledge and affirm the righteousness that has been displayed through a person’s willful choice, spirit content, and record of spiritual truth.  It will be such predetermined, impartial factors that “send” one to hell.

(3.)  So to speak, divine authority to alter the books of life is in effect only while a person is alive, and occurs through their own attitudes, actions, and life choices.  As they respond to the influence of the gospel and the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD, believers “apply” the blood of atonement shed by Jesus at the cross, that blots out the record of sin without erasing truths from life experiences and good works.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Christian believers must acquire a totally new understanding of deity and divinity that proceeds from the fullness of GODhead, and not merely from human intellect, logic, mathematics, reason, and science.  The nature of divine authority and power are very different than our concepts that center in coercion, force and pressure to achieve desire and self-will.  The necessary change begins through acceptance of the gospel, and baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from divine content).   Once born again, the believer must “grow up” again and mature, enduring the “growing pains” and challenges of life upon the earth.  The ongoing transformation of believers to being immortal and incorruptible will be completed at the coming of Jesus.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/07/2014) Stoning in the OT?

Capital punishment, covenant, judgment and stoning are topics, today.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Den Mäktiga Vita Dr” (Level 4 with 3,037 points, a member since November 01, 2013) posted the following:


Why do Christians feel that stoning people to death in the OT was a good way to punish them? 

I guess some people can't understand civilized rules.


THE BATTLE AXE:  On Christians Executing Judgment (06/06/2014)—(6.)  Rightly understood, judgment among mankind in the earth is to reveal judgment among those in heaven and throughout the universe of GOD.  With this in view, human judgment is always only a warning that pertains to ones eternal life, not their physical life.  Many confuse serving in judgment with having authority over others.  Where this occurs, presumption also appears (i.e., taking authority to oneself without permission; replacing GOD, usurping, or stealing divine power, so to speak).  The judgment carried out by Christian believers upon the earth begins as a divine operation using those in flesh against others in flesh, advances to an operation using those having an endowment of spirit within flesh against others yet in flesh, and finally becomes a divine operation by those who are immortal and incorruptible.  Absolute innocence, perfection, purity and ability to carry out violence are not always required for those having responsibility in judgment so much as balance, compassion, humility, impartiality, independence, neutrality, perspective (we also say, distance, separation), and truth along with ability to discern intent, needs and purposes addressed through the law with correct knowledge, and respect for all under the law.  See Exodus 12:  23, Exodus 32:  25-33, Ezra 7:  26, Romans 1:  16-32, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Ye shall have one law for him that sinneth through ignorance, both for him that is born among the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them.  But the soul that doeth ought presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people.  Because he hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him.  And while the children of Israel were in the wilderness, they found a man that gathered sticks upon the sabbath day.  And they that found him gathering sticks brought him unto Moses and Aaron, and unto all the congregation.  And they put him in ward, because it was not declared what should be done to him.  And the LORD said unto Moses, The man shall be surely put to death:  all the congregation shall stone him with stones without the camp.  And all the congregation brought him without the camp, and stoned him with stones, and he died; as the LORD commanded Moses.  (Numbers 15:  29-36, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Culture of Judgment? (03/20/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); Recognizing Divine Wrath (02/26/2014); In Earthen Vessels (02/27/2014); Bible Justice? (01/26/2014); GOD Inhabits Praise (01/27/2014); Can Someone Be Happy? (12/10/2013); Asked to Help? (12/11/2013); A GOD of Love? (05/07/2013); Commanding the Storm? (05/08/2013)


“Den Mäktiga Vita Dr”, where one hopes to speak correctly and intelligently regarding Christian beliefs, there are many, many points to consider pertaining to judgment and justice such as the following:

(1.)  Death by stoning was used to terminate those who were a clear threat to survival of a community in covenant with GOD.  Simple expulsion and rejection from the community meant their crimes and offenses could be repeated elsewhere, the offender might return seeking vengeance, and memories or recall of the offender might have a continuing negative influence.

(2.)  The entire community is accountable for carrying out the death sentence, and no single individual may be blamed or held to be at fault.  Damage by the offender is against every member of the community.  It is the mercy of judgment that only one stone may be cast by any single individual.  It is the combined weight of the community against the offender that results in their decease; and the person who casts the missile that is fatal and final is impartially decided.

(3.)  Unlike murder, where the killer(s) seek to hide their identity, avoid being known and seen, and are careful to escape punishment, the death sentence is carried out openly and in public following the hearing of evidence that may be mostly eye-witness testimony.  Words and a verbal response become “hard evidence” on the basis of character, personal integrity, and the manifesting of ones spirit content.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Believers today are to understand that being in relationship with GOD as a covenant people is a matter of cosmic and eternal significance, and is not a casual, private, or simple thing.  Given that covenant nations are instruments in divine process, offenses and transgressions by covenant people are disruptions of divine order throughout the earth, the heaven, and the entire universe.).  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith, meekness, and readiness to receive that same promise of the Father poured out at Pentecost upon the early church.


But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.  (Matthew 12:  7, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/18/2014) About the Second Coming?

Today, a few points are shared about the second coming along with more on the judges who condemned Jesus.  A “Yahoo! Answers India” writer using the ID “Royal Gabriel” (Level 1 with 51 points, a member since 12 July 2013) posted the following first asked at Yahoo Answers United States:


Question about the second coming of Jesus?

If Jesus returns, wouldn't a lot of people deny him again like they did in Jerusalem? And if he does return how will he be able to adjust with our lifestyle with regards to technology? All of us use cars, cellphones, and computers, which for someone who lived over 2000 years ago, would be extremely difficult to comprehend, let alone make use of.


OR is he being taught all of this stuff in heaven by God?
The second coming just seems so hard to believe...


THE BATTLE AXE:  The Judges Who Condemned Jesus? (01/17/2014)—Caiaphas and Pilate, the entire line of kings who ruled in Israel, and all believers today may be understood as servants and stewards entrusted with GOD’s treasures in the earth.  Provisions to atone for violations of divine law (we say, sinful acts or simply sins) are recorded in the Bible that extend to offenses committed in ignorance by priests, rulers, and the people (see Leviticus 4:  1-35 and Luke 12:  42-48, KJV).  As a result, many mistakenly agree that Caiaphas and Pilate are “saved” by the law.  However, these statutes are conditional, and extend only to those who have already accepted a place in covenant with GOD, and who turn again to GOD in repentance.  Without repentance that appears by operations of the imparted, indwelling Spirit of Christ, no person apprehends the atonement and forgiveness that, in fact, are available.  Those used by GOD in demonstrations of divine wrath against sin are not condemned out of hand for defiance, disobedience and rebellion.  It is their failure to return to GOD that is most damaging.  Like the earth that swallowed Dathan and Abiram, the great fish that swallowed Jonah, and the Angel David saw standing over Jerusalem with drawn sword, the instruments that perform divine will in judgment are in the position of agencies and tools of GOD, and are not regarded as the children of darkness and of disobedience.  See Ephesians 2:  1-9, Ephesians 5:  5-7 and Colossians 3:  4-13, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.  For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.  Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:  And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven:  and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.  And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.  (Matthew 24:  27-31, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Like a Thief? (12/01/2013);  Only While We Live? (12/02/2013); Reveal Himself To All? (12/03/2013); Is Science the Right Tool? (12/04/2013); The Return in Glory? (07/04/2013); Desire for Love? (07/05/2013); Repentance Must Come Before Resurrection (04/27/2013); Destroyed in Noah’s Flood? (04/28/2013); When Jesus Comes Back? (04/19/2013); What’s The Way Out? (04/20/2013); Suddenly Absent, Suddenly Present? (03/31/2013); A Family Affair? (04/01/2013)


“Royal Gabriel”, most Christian believers depend upon the Bible for their knowledge of the second coming.  A spirit from GOD is bestowed upon believers that makes it possible for them to receive and understand sacred knowledge.  Careful study of the many descriptions, proclamations, promises and prophecies then results in clear understanding, certain hope, and correction of errors.  Even so, here are a few points that can be shared with all:

(1)  The purpose of Christ returning from heaven is to harvest, and completely take away from the earth all who have ever been his believers and followers through the many divine ministries to mankind.  Those who have been long dead will be restored to life, and along with the living all will be permanently changed before they are carried into the celestial presence of GOD (we say, heaven).

(2)  Christ now is consecrated, sanctified, and serving as the High Priest of the Temple in heaven.  The Savior will not set foot upon the earth at his appearing, because the soil is defiled from innocent blood that has been shed because of sin.  Worldwide, all will be alerted to his coming by a trumpet blast, and the shout of an archangel.  Only those already certified through judgment, and who are already his will be lifted up to meet him in the air.

(3)  Once joined with Christ, those raised in what is called the “first resurrection” will begin their work as priests and kings completing final judgment with Jesus, assigning ownership to property in the earth made new, and preparing to reign and rule throughout eternity.

There is far more to be said, properly shared, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4) divine judgment is not based upon ones material belongings, their ownership of property, their wealth or social status.  There is no angel or devil that accuses us; all are judged from the books of life.  The sacred records of attitudes, behavior, conduct and events make visible the spirit content of created beings and living creatures.  Born again, believers in Jesus Christ receive a fresh endowment of divinity, such necessary spirit content as faith, gratitude, holiness, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


Therefore be ye also ready:  for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.  (Matthew 24:  44, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC