(06/02/2020) The Nearness Of Kingdom

A depiction of a seraph (angel; ministering spirit) to represent the celestial character of the Kingdom of GOD.

Today, reply is on how man-made tools, human frameworks, and materials used in the holy writings should not be relied on to know the presence of divinity, or correctly describe the kingdom of GOD. When it comes to heaven, the church founded by Jesus Christ, and the kingdom of GOD, many are in spiritual confusion, for they have no realistic idea what they are to expect from GOD, or hope for in final judgment. All are cautioned that, temporal elements such as attitudes, behavior, conduct, imagination, opinion and presumption are expressions of the flesh, while character, intent, and eternal purpose are aspects of life essence, unchanging divine image and sacred spirit content along with godly process and substance. All should expect to see things new and strange; all will have to discover, learn, and grow. It is written: Ezekiel 1: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Now it came to pass in the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, in the fifth day of the month, as I was among the captives by the river of Chebar, that the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God. 2 In the fifth day of the month, which was the fifth year of king Jehoiachin’s captivity, 3 The word of the LORD came expressly unto Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the river Chebar; and the hand of the LORD was there upon him. 4 And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it, and out of the midst thereof as the colour of amber, out of the midst of the fire. 5 Also out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance; they had the likeness of a man. 6 And every one had four faces, and every one had four wings. 7 And their feet were straight feet; and the sole of their feet was like the sole of a calf’s foot: and they sparkled like the colour of burnished brass. 8 And they had the hands of a man under their wings on their four sides; and they four had their faces and their wings. 9 Their wings were joined one to another; they turned not when they went; they went every one straight forward. 10 As for the likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 06 with 19,040 points) posted the following:

Does the bible say anything about being far from the kingdom of God and being near God's kingdom?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (1^st Corinthians 2: 6-14, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Angels Appearing As Men (04/09/2020); Will Jesus Come Soon? (01/09/2020); The Sovereignty Of GOD (11/24/2019); “Sneak Previews” Of Heaven (09/16/2019); Divine Dominion Over Nature (02/04/2019); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); Lower Than The Angels? (09/12/2017); Divinity Appears Using Form (07/26/2017)

“Breakthrough”, the kingdom of GOD is a condition and quality of ones spirit content. Spirit (we also say, divine breath; utterance; word) is the process and substance of the active presence whom we call “divine fullness” (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Even so, in the holy writings many descriptions for heaven and the kingdom of GOD are found that use devices and figures existing in the material and natural world to describe a discrete place set apart (sanctified) as the center and seat of the divine presence. In addition to parables, prophecy, revelation, and eyewitness testimonies, proclamations, promises and visions are recorded that provide created beings and living creatures with sacred knowledge pertaining to the process and realm of divine fullness. Christian believers who become born again receive a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity that includes balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. As offspring of GOD, believers are to mature on the earth relying on this anointing, and are not to depend on the finite tools and frameworks of the flesh relied on by others (e.g., emotion, intellect, logic, carnal reason, science, secular knowledge, time and space). Many have insisted that the dominion of divine kingdom may come only by sacred law (Torah), rather than through priests and prophets who manifest indwelling substance from the Creator (e.g., comfort, exhortation, a spirit of burning and judgment, the spirit of truth), or through kings, rulers, and a Messiah who fulfills the eternal purpose and the sovereign will of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Damita and Deitrick Haddon:

(1.) Isaiah 57: 15-16, King James Version (KJV): 15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. 16 For I will not contend for ever, neither will I be always wroth: for the spirit should fail before me, and the souls which I have made.

(2.) Mark 12: 28-34, KJV: 28 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? 29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: 30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. 32 And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: 33 And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. 34 And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.

(3.) Luke 17: 20-24, KJV: 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. 22 And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it. 23 And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them. 24 For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1u_5mG-ibk.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/09/2019) Having the Divine Perspective

Today, reply is on Christian believers having the divine perspective (i.e., being able to see the same sacred changes and divine process within themselves that divinity will see through the operations of judgment and Spirit). Every Christian believer comes to discern and recognize where they themselves are located within the sacred point of view and divine perspective. A confession that the divine nature is present within ones own life is not the result of brooding, introspection, self-examination, and efforts for self-improvement. Despite affliction, hardship, sickness and suffering, many Christians will affirm that the truth is certain and indisputable: divinity nonetheless is operating within their lives today. Proclaiming the authority and authenticity of the Scriptures, they declare: God said it; I believe it; that settles it. Awareness of invisible, unseen divinity being active and present within ones life requires a fresh endowment of imparted spirit substance from the makeup of GOD along with the development and maturity of ones spiritual consciousness: “You must be born again;” and those “born again” must “grow up again.” Balance, consistency, impartiality, and stability increasingly must operate within the many aspects of a believer such as their expectations, their lifestyle, purposes, and daily routines. It is written: Romans 8: 15-17, King James Version (KJV): 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 fighter in the Religion and Spirituality public forum at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “✞ 2 ...hunter” (Level 7 with 45,461 points, a member since August 18, 2011) posted the following:

How does one know that they are growing spiritually?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3: 7-14, King James Version, KJV:

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Areas Where Change Appears? (10/24/2018); Claiming To Know GOD? (09/14/2018); The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); Certainty, Conviction and Faith (01/05/2018); Diversity and Divine Purpose (08/28/2016); Knowing? (05/24/2015); The Scriptures and Perfection? (10/27/2014); To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012); A Life Companion? (11/07/2012)

“✞ 2 ...hunter”, because Christian believers are in an ongoing divine process of transformation where their consciousness and self-will are being permanently changed so they will eternally exist as companions to divinity, their present “knowing” and “self-awareness” also undergoes shifts and transitions. Rather than rely on behavioral, carnal, material and social “evidence”, developing believers eventually depend on such elements as certainty of divine righteousness; conformity to divine word appearing in such forms as holy writings, divine law, proclamation, promise, prophecy and revelation; and conviction that immutable, unchanging principles are continuing as standards that describe the life condition of those following Christ through operations of divinity that can not be influenced or interrupted by finite actors and human events. Consider again the following that uses familiar language from the Bible:

1. Philippians 2: 5-11, King James Version (KJV): 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

2. 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, 3. Romans 8: 28-30, KJV: 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 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. 30 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.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:18 AM, August 08, 08, 2019 @ https://116boyz.files.wordpress.com/2016/05/0bac5e78e075b929926bbb5c931b74d5.jpg?w=690

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/07/2019) Repentance Must Happen Now

Today, reply is on how long one may delay and postpone choosing to receive divine repentance. Not only is it uncertain what day and hour Christ might return to harvest those from the earth who belong to him through their atonement and repentance, it is uncertain for every mortal when their final moment may arrive and their opportunity for salvation be lost forever. Christian believers are cautioned: 2^nd Corinthians 6: 1-2, King James Version (KJV): 1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “jane” (Level 1 with 78 points, a member since May 15, 2019) posted the following:

Can a person put off repentance untilthe final hours of life and still receive salvation?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. (Hebrews 3: 12-13, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Recognizing The End Times (04/16/2019); How Sinners Become Perfect (11/26/2018); A Short Time Left (10/30/2018); First, Become Born Again (09/21/2018); Believers Must Become “Ripe” (09/02/2018); Repentance Among Christian Believers (07/06/2018) When Speaking Of Christlikeness (06/25/2018)

“jane”, developing Christian believers should regard their own salvation as long overdue; and their every effort to return to GOD should be made as though from someone facing a serious emergency. When asked the best time for making repentance and receiving new life through Jesus Christ, believers should all answer, Now! Believers increasingly are being admonished that delayed obedience is disobedience. While a person apologizing, asking for forgiveness, or pledging to make changes in their own behavior may all be thought of as discrete, one-time events displaying repentance, the accomplishment of permanent change and spiritual growth we speak of as returning to GOD requires that multiple streams of discovery, realization, and truth must come together. Where duty and obedience appear as obligations generated by sacred law, repentance appears as obligation generated by ones endowment of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. Included are balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom and wrath against sin.

The elements that become present during the full process of repentance do not all appear at the same time, and do not all express the same emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual qualities. Thus, sorrowing for sin may appear long before wrath against sin, or the acceptance of forgiveness that translates into renewing and continuing relationships that have been damaged by the operations of sin. With this in mind, we say, repentance is a sacred process initiated and completed by the Holy Spirit wherein sinners are to become aware of otherwise unseen divine law, ongoing works for salvation, possibilities for personal change and correction, and standards required for new life in Christ. As developing believers, those who become born-again must grow-up again and become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his coming. Believers are to understand that all created beings and living creatures having awareness and self-will are to acknowledge accountability to divinity for their own deeds and works; that the operations of sin are contrary to the makeup and spirit substance of divinity and mankind; and that divine order and eternal purposes throughout Creation are disrupted by sin. Sinners must undergo a transformation to exist as the new creation of Jesus Christ, heirs of GOD, and life companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, there is much to be done, and many events of the end time will be completed very quickly. Believers are to act now, not to wait for feelings that may come along later. In addition to acquiring sacred knowledge that will serve as a frame for secular knowledge, believers must experience discovery, gradual growth, gratitude, fellowship with those anointed and ordained as servants and spokespersons of divinity, praise, prayer, unselfish service, and suffering that will challenge them to apply and practice the new meanings and values that pertain to displaying Christ-likeness.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:11 PM, June 06, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/564x/19/3d/db/193ddb05510aed0c503da1915737cb13.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/06/2019) Jesus Had GOD's Approval

Today, reply is on the sacred knowledge and process among Christian believers whereby Jesus Christ is accepted as having been approved of GOD. Believers in Jesus as their Redeemer and Savior choose to exist as life companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity. Thus, it is written: 1^st John 5: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? 6 This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth. 7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. 8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. 9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. 10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Brother Virgil” (Level 1 with 129 points, a member since May 26, 2019) posted the following:

How do we know that Jesus had God’s approval?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said. While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud. And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen. (Luke 9: 28-36, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Nothing Impossible For GOD? (04/07/2019); One Died For All (04/05/2019); How GOD Speaks Today (12/10/2018); Sinners Must Become Convicted (11/27/2018); The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); Knowing the Invisible GOD (09/17/2017); How To Know GOD? (12/12/2016); The Transfiguration of Christ (11/14/2016)

“Brother Virgil”, because Christians are to “know” by faith, by works, and by the seals divinity places upon them, here are some points on divine fullness (i.e., Deity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) from the Bible along with some of the ideas I would pass on to my own sons and heirs:

1. Acts 2: 22-24, King James Version (KJV): 22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: 24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

2. The appearance of divinity on the earth as Jesus Christ using flesh and the form of mankind (we say, the Incarnation) requires (1) humanity that is authentic through birth, aging, suffering, death, resurrection, and final judgment; (2) a display of personhood that is genuine through patterns of appetite, awareness, emotion, independence, mind, sensation, and finite self-will (willpower); (3) a recognizable endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) imparted to mankind from the substance of the Creator as well as (4) a continuous presentation of the inseparable meanings, standards, and values that project a visible image of GOD who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible.

3. Isaiah 55: 10-12, KJV: 10 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: 11 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. 12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

4. Accord among the Godhead acknowledges multiple streams of sacred substance that express divine prerogative, eternal purpose, truth, and sovereign will. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

5. Deuteronomy 18: 21-22, KJV: 21 And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken? 22 When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.

6. Romans 14: 17-19, KJV: 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. 19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

7. Assurances, discernment of divine presence, and “knowing” (i.e., being certain; being convicted; being sure) emerge by the continuity, confluence, exchange, and interaction of diverse elements describing godly consciousness. Included are doctrine, sacred events (we say, miracles), sacred law, sacred practices (we say, sacraments), praise, prayer, promises, prophecy, oral traditions, spiritual songs, and holy writings.

8. John 14: 10-12, KJV: 10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake. 12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

9. All who are turned to divinity for sacred knowledge in place of finite human information and secular knowledge are in a process with GOD to receive conclusive declaration following ongoing service. Believers are to watch, wait, witness, and work as divinity provides expressions of consecration (we say, grace, faith, patience, revelation).

10. Ezekiel 12: 22-27, KJV: 22 Son of man, what is that proverb that ye have in the land of Israel, saying, The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth? 23 Tell them therefore, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will make this proverb to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel; but say unto them, The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision. 24 For there shall be no more any vain vision nor flattering divination within the house of Israel. 25 For I am the LORD: I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall be no more prolonged: for in your days, O rebellious house, will I say the word, and will perform it, saith the Lord GOD. 26 Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying. 27 Son of man, behold, they of the house of Israel say, The vision that he seeth is for many days to come, and he prophesieth of the times that are far off. 28 Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; There shall none of my words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord GOD.

11. Things known by faith are to become affirmed on the basis of their completion; their fulfillment; the appearance of peace as the resolution of conflict and the settlement of disputes through the application of sacred law; the disclosure of immutable conditions and unchanging operations that will remain unseen, yet, have existed before the foundation of heaven and earth; and the things proclaimed and possible with GOD being made actual before the living.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 12. Correctly understood, the device of father/son relationship is used to establish a consciousness of divine process that is to be fruitful among created beings and living creatures. There are no issues of conflicting authorities, persons within the Godhead opposing one another, or multiple deities requiring each other’s actions and approval to manifest their own personhood. Also, 13. John 10: 17-18, KJV: 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/30/2019) Jesus In This Environment?

Today, reply is on Christian ministry, believers persevering by knowing “the end from the beginning,” and how disciples of Jesus must continue in ongoing sanctification. A little one who can recite their ABCs is able to tell you what comes after E-F-G. By knowing the full pattern, they may accurately say, H-I-J-K, or X-Y-Z is coming without practicing clairvoyance, or being able to read and write yet. Similarly, those choosing to follow Jesus Christ are not granted authority and power to read another person’s mind, foretell future events, or control all life conditions, consequences, and outcomes so much as they are supplied with discernment and sacred knowledge that allows them to realize the godliness of spirit within events, other persons, sacred writings, themselves, etc. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

What would my life be like if I believed in Jesus in this environment?

A good amount of my relatives are anti-Bible and dislike creationists. Many are pro-abortion, pro-gay marriage, and liberal. One of my aunts makes fun of the Bible and can't stand it when the name Jesus is mentioned.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 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: 3-9, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Ministry Is Through Relationship (03/05/2019); Will You Lose Family? (01/20/2019); Ye That Work Iniquity (09/24/2018); Be Not Unequally Yoked (04/16/2018); Recognizing True Christian Prophets (02/26/2018); Standing On The ABCs? (11/09/2017); Neither “All-knowing” Nor “Omniscient” (11/07/2017); Few Are Chosen (07/06/2015); Knowing? (05/24/2015)

“Anonymous”, among Christians, believers are to impart and share inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, patience, restraint, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The environment you describe is the same that Jesus explained would be in effect when instructing his apostles regarding ministry to those who would seek to be his followers. Those who minister are privilege to know “the end from the beginning.” As did Moses, those who minister Christ also must endure negative responses (e.g., challenges, defiance, disbelief, frustration, injustice, opposition, and persecution) from family, employers, neighbors, and others to whom they are sent. Also, among Christians, there is a continuous process of cleansing and separation (we say, “sanctification”) that establishes increasing distance between sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ and those who continue as disbelievers. The sinner must experience the death, burial, and resurrection of their own inborn spirit. Once “born again” and having a fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of GOD, the sinner is a developing believer who must “grow up again” and become mature/ripe for harvest by Jesus Christ at his appearing (we also say, the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). As offspring of GOD, the new creation of Jesus Christ, and vessels of divine substance, believers will be comforted, edified, and exhorted to meet life challenges on the earth. In addition to commitment, discernment that is an operation of the Spirit, doctrine, and sacred knowledge, Christians will be set apart from those in other systems of belief by their sacred practices and eternal purpose that include discovery, gradual growth, prayer, praise, the endurance of suffering, and unselfish service. Their transformation to exist as companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity will be completed “in the twinkling of an eye” as they leave the earth to meet Jesus in the air. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Matthew 10: 24-25, KJV: 24 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. 25 It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?

2. Mark 6: 1-6, KJV: 1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him. 2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? 3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. 4 But Jesus, said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. 5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. 6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching.

3. 2^nd Timothy 3: 1-5, KJV: 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Hebrews 12: 3-8, KJV: 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. 4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. 5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. 7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? 8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:32 PM, April 30, 2019 @ https://purepurposebook.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/setapart.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/02/2018) His Words About Returning

Today, the reply presents the words of Jesus Christ about his return to harvest the earth of those belonging to divinity through his name. No specific date or hour has been proclaimed by divinity for the return of Jesus Christ to the earth; and acknowledgment of Christ must go forward as the manifesting of faith and holiness along with the other inseparable aspects from the image of GOD (e.g., longsuffering; lovingkindness; oneness without sameness; personhood; wisdom; wrath against sin). There must be the continuance of gradual growth for those who are born again in addition to discovery, fellowship, enduring hardship, repentance, and unselfish service. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Father Ben Dover” (Level 1 with 42 points, a member since February 08, 2015) posted the following:

When do you think Jesus is coming for us?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matthew 26: 40-41, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Preparing For The Rapture (11/09/2018); A Short Time Left (10/30/2018); Christian Beliefs Are Forward-looking (09/23/2018); “The End Is Near” (03/14/2018); The Most Important Thing (12/28/2017); “Occupy Till I Come” (08/30/2017); Waiting For His Appearing (02/09/2016); Christ Coming Soon? (10/16/2015); If You Knew When? (09/17/2015)

“Father Ben Dover”, the revelation of GOD to mankind has included in depth sacred knowledge pertaining to the birth, ministry, death, eternal purpose, and resurrection of Jesus Christ; yet, there is no proclamation of a specific day and time of his Advent (we also say, his appearing; the Rapture; Second Coming). To avoid error and spiritual confusion, developing and mature Christian believers are encouraged to rely on the things declared through the holy writings, rather than depend on conjecture, speculation, and personal opinions. The guidance and instruction given the apostles and elders for the church are intended to ensure continuity of the ministry, and the further unfolding of repentance, salvation, and new creation as a lifestyle providing sacred opportunities and possibilities that conform to divine law. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 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.

2. Matthew 24: 3-8, KJV: 3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? 4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.

3. Matthew 24: 24-31, KJV: 24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. 25 Behold, I have told you before. 26 Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers; believe it not. 27 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. 28 For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together. 29 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: 30 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. 31 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.

4. Matthew 24: 35-37, KJV: 35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. 37 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Mark 13: 31-33, KJV: 31 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. 32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. 33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/24/2018) Areas Where Change Appears?

Today, the reply identifies five areas wherein developing Christian believers should be able to see evidences that they truly have been called and granted redemption, salvation, and eternal life through Jesus Christ. The beginnings of permanent change that will be completed through operations of the imparted Holy Spirit become visible through fresh life experiences of accord, discernment, focus, spiritual growth, and eternal purpose. Other indicators that a sinner has become a “divine work in progress” by answering the call of Christ may be seen through the replacement of their traveling clothes of complaining, irreverence, mocking, and moping with the wedding garments of increased accountability, commitment, dutifulness, meekness, patience, respect, and restraint. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

How do I know if I am being called like the Bible says?

Matthew 22:14

THE GOLDEN ARROW: The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space. And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast. These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. (Revelation 17: 8-14, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Changed And Made Christ-like? (06/19/2018); To Bear Wrongs Patiently? (02/13/2018); Standards For Godly Behavior (02/01/2018); Proper Training For Belief? (01/10/2018); Standing On The ABCs? (11/09/2017); The Two-edged Sword (01/09/2017); Called To Be Servants? (11/25/2015); Many Are Called… (10/15/2015); Few Are Chosen (07/06/2015)

“Anonymous”, here are areas where repenting sinners will experience permanent change through the Holy Spirit to become Christlike, display the image of GOD, and exist as developing Christian believers:

1. Accord. Christian communities are characterized by such features as acceptance, agreement, consistency, and corroboration among their divine law, doctrines, practices, principles, and teachings. Given the focus is truth proclaimed and provided from the Creator—who displays himself through diversity, yet, is immutable, incorruptible, and unchanging—there will be a oneness without sameness that appears as continuing and interwoven threads throughout that join what may seem to be disparate and unrelated material. Believers come together with multiple levels of growth, knowledge, maturity, and skill. Therefore, the sacred process also is one of affirmation, communication, cooperation, exchange, interaction, and interdependence.

2. Discernment. Within the household of faith, increasingly all are to practice discernment (i.e., using their own spirit substance from the makeup of GOD to recognize and respond to the same spirit substance as it appears within events, other persons, themselves, the holy writings, etc.). Through water baptism that depicts the death, burial, and rebirth of ones own inborn spirit, the believer is given a fresh endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD. Included are inseparable aspects of divinity such as balance, completeness, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

3. Focus. Among believers acquiring sacred knowledge and having a lifestyle that includes the performance of sacred practices (e.g., sacraments; praise; prayer; unselfish service; worship) increasingly will replace such interests as acquiring wealth; politics; seeking secular knowledge; study of philosophy, science, and technology; and pursuing worldly routines.

4. Spiritual Growth. Those who become “born again” through baptism are to be regarded as the children of GOD, joint heirs with Jesus Christ, and a new creation. Even so, all must “grow up again” and become mature/ripe for harvest from the earth by the Lord at his Advent (we also say, his appearing; the Rapture; the Second Coming). Developing believers are to endure “growing pains” living on the earth, and are built up (edified) through sacred tools that generate discovery; fellowship; prophecy; and suffering.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Eternal Purpose. Believers will use discernment to recognize and respond to otherwise invisible and unseen spirit aspects deposited within life challenges, settings, and situations. The absence or presence divine intent (we also say, aims, motives, opportunities, possibilities, thoughts) are to be acknowledged at all times.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/23/2018) Poem: TO BE TOLD

Today, I share an original poem I recently posted at Facebook (October 21, 2018, 9:09 PM), TO BE TOLD, BE STILL. Existing as a servant to GOD and abiding in a relationship with divinity poses many challenges to romantic love as well as to the hopes for family, home, and the stable relations of marriage. Endowed with mountain-moving faith, the Apostle Peter and others who were married made the sacrifice for many years separated from their wives while serving as evangelists and circuit preachers. It is written: Matthew 19: 23-30, King James Version (KJV): 23 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. 24 And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. 25 When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? 26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. 27 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? 28 And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. 30 But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. (John 6: 66-68, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Discernment And Godly Love (06/26/2018); The Relationship As Servant (06/03/2018); The Practice of Love (07/27/2017); 1st “Poem-fall” 2017: THE SNOWFLAKE BALL (01/10/2017); Divine Jealousy? (09/11/2015); A Valentine, 2014 (02/15/2014); Family and Romance? (10/13/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012)

TO BE TOLD, BE STILL

It disturbs us to be told

be still and know

for the winter days begin

when we shall be encased in snow

and ice, all action frozen, paused

unwillingly, impotent, halted

like the sunshine process in the leaf

that turns the light to sweetness

from the root

Is it by stillness only fullness comes

the emptiness from all you know

dismissed, released

the days of frost rush over

hidden bulbs to bloom

in spring that may not be

how shall we bare or dare

without you

an evergreen of forest

can not exist alone

nor lovers without each other

embrace a new unknown

glacial abrasion, melting from

a heat of burning cold

putting aside our

youth with all its rage

succumbing to the quiet of old age

defiance and rebellion came

as wise, without deceit

and stealth, without fresh lies

through stolen moments

kisses fresh as dew

creating memories

that keep us new

and joined alive to life

what God has joined together

celebrate, receive as blessing

should deadly chill winds echo

I will never ever leave

and though we be apart

when shadows fall

in strength of what we share

I will not grieve

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2018. All rights reserved.

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC