(11/19/2020) The Power We Receive

 The image depicts the appearing of Jesus Christ in glory (we say also say, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming).

Today, reply is on the character, makeup, and nature of the sacred power Christian believers receive through baptism that establishes their new condition as the offspring of GOD having resurrection-life and existence as the new creation of Jesus Christ. The gifts men are to receive from GOD will transform them so they display authentic humanity, rather than behave as bosses, bullies, or supermen supplied with magic, strength, and unnatural abilities. Correctly understood, there must be the death, burial, and resurrection from the dead of ones inborn spirit; and there will be growth and ongoing works by divinity. In addition to divine law the holy writings provide a record of sacred judgments against sin along with divine proclamations, promises, and prophecies. While the focus and process of sacred law in the Scriptures opposes finite human self-will, imposes death and mortality, and concludes that all mankind is to exist under sin, there also are multiple promises and provisions for humanity so that the living have presence from the makeup of GOD as new life. It is written: 1^st John 3: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “God Hates You ATM; Prov 6:16-19” (Level 1 with 21 points) posted the following:

Re: John 1:12 Where is today's Christians' POWER received after Holy Spirit baptism (Acts 1:5;8) to become the sons of GOD?

Updated 8 mins ago:

@SIN

WHY AREN'T YOU OUT THERE THEN?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3: 22-28, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Appeals Directed to Spirit (11/08/2020); The Spirits Are Subject (10/28/2020); GOD Can Forgive Us (09/13/2020); Divine Character Must Appear (08/13/2020); Divine Process and Substance (06/24/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020)

“God Hates You ATM; Prov 6:16-19”, Christians do not receive power from GOD that may be used independently and self-managed as though one is apart and separated from divinity. Sinners and those continuing to express the inborn spirit that resides within the flesh and mind of mankind often approach divinity only because they covet (i.e., want to possess; make empty and void; use up) the authority, dominion, and power that belongs to GOD as the Creator, origin, and source for all that has existence and life. Such “believers” pursue selfish goals and vain hopes that cannot be realized by those on the earth for they rely on finite self-will; moreover, they lack the willpower required to carry out sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The character, process and substance of power must be acknowledged as alive, incorruptible, unchanging, and invisible. Spirit continues as life essence (breath; spirit; word) in its form and function. Believers are to be vessels of inseparable aspects of consecrated fullness imparted from the makeup of GOD that include balance, commitment, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, restraint, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The elements of divine power are not to be thought of as coercion, force, and violence so much as they are to be understood as compassion, discovery, forgiveness, gradual growth, grace, mercy for those found guilty in judgment, reconciliation, and sobriety. Those who become “born again” while existing on the earth must undergo permanent change through operations of the Holy Spirit whereby they “grow up again” to become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing. The transformation to become complete and perfected as life companions to divinity will occur at the Advent (Second Coming) as believers behold the redeemer and savior in glory. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of the virtual youth choir at Villa Alegre Bible Baptist Church (Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City (Manila), Philippines):

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

(2.) 2^nd Timothy 1: 7, KJV: 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

(3.) Romans 8: 1-10, KJV: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 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: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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. 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Trust His Heart by Babbie Mason and Eddie Carswell @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSd-Wmd9Adc. ) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:15 AM, November 19, 2020 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8J26FS9_0hY/maxresdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/03/2019) Divine Revelation Not Showmanship

Today, reply is on the progression of sacred events that will continue the eternal revelation of divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) through the embodiment and Incarnation of GOD as Jesus Christ. It is foolishness and sin to regard the earthly life and ministry of Jesus that includes death, suffering, atonement, forgiveness of sin, resurrection, and salvation to be a mere trick, a magician’s illusion, or a practiced stage performance to entertain an audience. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “John” (Level 1 with 93 points, a member since May 26, 2013) posted the following:

A hard act to follow?

Jesus coming back with a resurrection was a cracking move coming up with that was brilliant !but a hard act to follow if you could ask him to do something else what would it be

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. (Revelation 1: 7-8, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Single Sacred Revelation (01/09/2019); Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); Sacred Characters, Not Fictional (12/12/2018); Watching The Science Channel? (10/17/2018); Doing GOD’s Plan (02/20/2014); “Prayer Death”? (02/21/2014)

“John”, where sinners will see only entertainment, melodrama, and stories of crime and suspense, believers who take up the Scriptures are to see the blueprints and practical plans they must follow to raise up the church headed by Jesus Christ and the new creation. Mature Christian believers are encouraged to acknowledge the holy writings and their record of Jesus Christ to be an authentic appearing of divinity that may be apprehended by all created beings and living creatures. The Scriptures themselves convey and infuse spirit matter from the makeup and substance of GOD; and are not dependent on such finite human tools as instinct, intellect, intuition, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, science, and critical thinking. Expressing divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign will, the active presence who is Creator acts to make himself knowable, known, accessible, and approachable. The revelation of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is a sacred process that focuses on GOD who is immortal, immutable, invisible, and unchanging. Divine tools are used that project change and motion (e.g., discovery, diversity, growth, mystery, prophecy, repetition, sequence, vision); however, these tools also suspend and transcend the fixed frameworks of natural law along with those of time and space. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 1^st Peter 2: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. 4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, 5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

2. 1^st Corinthians 2: 7-13, KJV: 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 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. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 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. 12 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. 13 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.

3. Hebrews 6: 1-3, KJV: 1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, 2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. 3 And this will we do, if God permit.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Revelation 1: 1-6, KJV: 1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: 2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. 3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. 4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; 5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/15/2017) Coincidence or Answered Prayer?

Today, reply is on discernment and recognizing chance occurrences as different from divine responses and answered prayer.  The frameworks of time and space promote the concepts of goals, random order, and the independent existence of operations that use numbers to describe secular reality (e.g., amount, dimension, sequence, statistical predictability).  However, these are often useless where sacred knowledge and spirit truth are to be shared.  Similarly, as tools to establish belief and conviction, conjuring and magic fail when used to establish the actuality of GOD (thus, the prophetic demonstration performed by Moses before Pharaoh, casting down his staff that became a snake, is followed by calamity and plague, divine displays of judgment and wrath against sin).  The immutable and unchanging aspects of divinity serve as fixed points of reference for created beings and living creatures that can not be altered or manipulated, and are “anchors” during times of confusion, tribulation, and turbulence that include sudden occurrences and unpleasant surprises.  Redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ are not a matter of “luck”, or being chosen out of a hat at random like a raffle ticket.  Multiple acts of self-will are required from sinners such as acknowledging divine judgment, making deliberate choices, heartfelt commitment, continuous communication and exchange in prayer, discovery, painstaking effort, focus, forbearance, forgiveness, rebirth, repentance, unselfish service, sacred studies as well as suffering, waiting and careful work.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Jay” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since November 14, 2017) posted the following:


God s work or just a coincidence?

My family and I were at a Premium outlet yesterday. We arranged a time to regroup back then departed out ways in the mall. When it was time to regroup back, eveyone but my mom arrived. We waited for a while then started to search. I walked around the outlet for around 15 minutes and did not manage to find her. I bumped into my other brother searching but my mom was nowhere to be found. I decided to pray (I m not a strong Christian but my mom tells me to pray in times of trouble) that my mom will appear so that we can go home. Immediately, she popped up leaving me speachelss... I told her to wait in the car while I search for my brother who is somewhere in the mall still searching. Again I decided to pray (I was thinking if he showed up, this would be scary) and he popped out of nowhere. Is this God s work or a coincidence? I know this is a silly question but I am truly amazed and wonder if there really is a God.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:   Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.  I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.  For man also knoweth not his time:  as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.  (Ecclesiastes 9:  10-12, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Standing On The ABCs? (11/09/2017); Leadings of the Spirit (11/05/2017); GOD Is Imparting Truth (10/30/2017); Christ Our High Priest (10/25/2017); Miracles Are Not Everlasting (07/18/2017); Miracles Are From GOD (03/14/2014); Giving Forgiveness? (03/15/2014); Magick and Prayer? (10/29/2012); The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012)


“Jay”, the process GOD is using in our lives is one of revelation and making divinity known, not one of creating mysteries and puzzles, or hiding the truth.  During a person’s lifetime they will have many experiences where the cause or source is hidden and obscured, and that will be difficult to explain.  Often, random, strange, and unfamiliar events trigger behavior, fear, and reactions that are no less than idol worship (attributing divine power to man-made things, things in nature, and other persons), superstition (belief that one may influence outcomes of events by charms, spells, etc.), and fascination with the occult (such things as banshees, Egyptian mummies, and ghosts).  Consider again how Moses was on his way home from the day’s work as a shepherd when, out of curiosity, he stopped to get a closer look at a strange sight.  In fact, he allowed the sheep to continue on without him in order to see what appeared to be a bush that had caught fire.  When he turned aside, Moses did not intend to pray or have a religious “time-out” so much as to see why there was no smoke or ashes from a burning bush.

In agreement with the holy writings, Christian believers expect sacred events (we say, miracles) intended to make known the active presence, character, and purposing of divinity (1) will repeat earlier and recorded divine works (what God has done God can do); (2) will promote such responses as expressing gratitude, obedience, reverence, and thanksgiving; (3) will restore peace of mind by resolving conflicts and settling disputes; (4) will expose error and sin that seem natural and normal, yet, are contrary to human and divine nature; and (5) will be “marked” and have a divine “signature” that declares the author’s name (i.e., proclaim it is an act of GOD).

Born-again believers are to practice discernment wherein their own endowment of imparted spirit from the makeup of GOD is used as a standard to recognize and respond to deposits of divine spirit that reside within events, other people, prophecy, the holy writings, etc.  Water baptism depicts the death, burial, and resurrection of ones inborn spirit.  Thereby, a sinner becomes a vessel containing divine spirit, and is accounted an offspring of GOD, a joint-heir with Christ, and one who bears holy seed that must become ripe for harvest (the return of Jesus Christ).

Many mistakenly turn to Christ because they are seeking material benefits, good fortune, and selfish gain.  Just as there are divine gifts that operate in ones consciousness (e.g., a word of knowledge, a word of wisdom) there are operations of human mind that include instinct, intuition and premonition.  Also, there are such things as “chance”, “likelihood”, “possibilities”, and “probabilities”.  Even so, divine acts will carry out the divine will; will be in harmony with natural and divine law; and will fulfill divine proclamations, promises, and prophecy.  Thus, Christian belief does not endorse psychic powers, sorcery, wishing, witchcraft, and those who claim they have “luck” (a presence that influences the outcomes of events according to their own desire).  Here are some points using language from the Bible:

(1.)  1st Samuel 15:  22-24, King James Version (KJV):  22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.  23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.  24 And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned:  for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words:  because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.

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

(3.)  Romans 8:  27-29, KJV:  27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.  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.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and made a part of our own spirit makeup.  (For example, (4.)  1st Corinthians 14:  26-33, KJV:  26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.  27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.  28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.  29 Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.  30 If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.  31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.  32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.  33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/28/2017) Hardened Minds and Hearts?

Today, focus is on admonition, covetousness, and the range of sacred operations required to oppose sin.  Correctly understood, the living, and the things of the material and natural world have been created to express and serve the will of the Creator, not merely their own self-will.  It should not be disturbing or surprising, then, that the immortal, invisible Creator of heaven and earth might use animals, angels, the sun, moon, and stars to communicate and intercede with his own finite created beings and living creatures.  What should be thought startling and strange is that the hearts and minds of many are blinded by the flesh and the world so that they can not receive the plain guidance, instruction, warnings and testimonies from the Bible, or shared by those endowed with faith through Jesus Christ.  In the account of Balaam, who was spoken to by an ass, the seer himself regularly experienced unusual events, and often was relied on as the one to give counsel to others when they were challenged and confused by strange occurrences.  The ass had to speak to counter Balaam’s hardness of heart.  Similarly, discernment and sacred knowledge are bestowed on the apostles, prophets, mature believers, and the disciples of Jesus Christ to enable their correct response to the active presence who is GOD.  Consider again the following:  Hebrews 5:  12-14, King James Version (KJV):  12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.  13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness:  for he is a babe.  14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:


Christian. Is the commandment to not covet your neighbour's donkey referring to one of those magical talking donkeys that you all believe in?

Because I must admit, those are some pretty good donkeys!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?  And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me:  I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee.  And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? and he said, Nay.  Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand:  and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.  And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass these three times? behold, I went out to withstand thee, because thy way is perverse before me:  And the ass saw me, and turned from me these three times:  unless she had turned from me, surely now also I had slain thee, and saved her alive.  And Balaam said unto the angel of the LORD, I have sinned; for I knew not that thou stoodest in the way against me:  now therefore, if it displease thee, I will get me back again.  And the angel of the LORD said unto Balaam, Go with the men:  but only the word that I shall speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.  And when Balak heard that Balaam was come, he went out to meet him unto a city of Moab, which is in the border of Arnon, which is in the utmost coast.  And Balak said unto Balaam, Did I not earnestly send unto thee to call thee? wherefore camest thou not unto me? am I not able indeed to promote thee to honour?  And Balaam said unto Balak, Lo, I am come unto thee:  have I now any power at all to say any thing? the word that God putteth in my mouth, that shall I speak.  (Number 22:  28-38, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divinity Appears Using Form (07/26/2017); The Sin of Witchcraft? (01/24/2017); When the Donkey Speaks? (11/03/2016); On Really Seeing Angels (10/09/2016); Getting It Right About Angels (05/10/2015); Harden Not Your Hearts? (09/08/2014);Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); Hardness of Heart? (11/24/2013); Prayer on Behalf of Others? (11/25/2013); Balaam (10/15/2013); About Sabbath (10/16/2013)


“Anonymous”, none of the many sacred operations carried out by GOD to cleanse, defend, heal, and maintain ongoing relationships with the living involve “magic”.  Establishing godliness within created beings and living creatures now demand such elements as acquiring sacred knowledge, forgiveness, growth, completing mortality (death), rebirth, resurrection, ripening for harvest, and sanctification.  The Spirit of GOD that put forth heaven, the earth, and Creation continues to gradually introduce permanent changes in the spirit content of sinners that include multiple subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences; sudden shifts in meaning, quality, and value), and that remain unseen to those who lack discernment.

Many fail to grasp that covetousness only appears as a transgression of divine law (we say, sin).  All sin opposes the continued existence of sacred law, the Law Giver, and divine order throughout the spheres of life.  It has not been a divine intent or eternal purpose that the living exist with their consciousness and self-will dominated by sin, and responding to an uninterrupted stream of desire.  Sin promotes destruction, nonexistence, and a return to the conditions in place before the founding of heaven and earth.  Even so, the living often accept sin as natural, normal, and in no way contrary to their own character and makeup.

In the same way divine law has been provided for guidance and instruction against sin, the account of the “talking donkey” is supplied for those who are immersed in carnal, material, secular and social realities.  Balaam was a genuine  seer (in the Bible, the early name for a prophet).  In addition to genuine prophecy from GOD that may have included visitations by angels, Balaam also may have indulged the occult through ignorance, innocence, and exaggerated pride.  Thus, a very graphic and strong warning had to be made against the self-will of Balaam and how he might support the enemies of Moses.  (Ask yourself:  Where my own self-will would be directed against the sovereign will of GOD, would it be enough for me to be answered on the Internet by a stranger (some jackass) answering in faith and love to Jesus Christ, or would I need something “extreme”, magical, and occult to be admonished and corrected by GOD?  Would GOD have to use with me what he uses for those having hardened minds and hearts?)

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/24/2017) The Sin of Witchcraft?

The Prophet Samuel Called from the Dead by the Witch at Endor

Today, focus is on obeying GOD, the fall of King Saul, and the sin of witchcraft.  All sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the divine order that maintains Creation.  More than this, sin challenges the holiness and purity of divinity, and vilifies the name of GOD.  Counterfeits of sacred knowledge, divine operations, and prophecy can be fashioned and used to deceive, however, the finite self-will of sinners can not produce, put forth, or otherwise bestow existence, repentance, and resurrection from the dead.  King Saul, the first King of Israel, visited a witch at Endor asking her to call from the dead the spirit of the prophet, Samuel.  Like the first pair, Adam, magicians, mediums, spiritualist, witches, and wizards seek special knowledge and power without having to rely upon continuing in correct relationship with the Creator.  They assign value (we say, judge) incorrectly, assume authority presumptuously (i.e., arrogantly and without permission), and they intrude into, misapply, and trifle with the things of GOD.  The peculiar abilities and power they may display are not derived from GOD, and do not accomplish eternal purposes or provide the sacred gifts that give and support new life such as forgiveness, healing, hope, prophecy, and rebirth.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers (Singapore) using the ID “Shadowfire” (Level 4 with 2,989 points, a member since January 08, 2015) posted the following:

Is it true the Bible says witches are supposed to get stoned?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people.  Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy:  for I am the LORD your God.  And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them:  I am the LORD which sanctify you.  (Leviticus 20:  6-8, King James Version,  KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Living Baptized for the Dead? (03/27/2015); Not Images Used in Worship? (09/14/2014); Death is a Divine Tool (09/15/2015); Miracles Are From GOD (03/14/2014); Giving Forgiveness? (03/15, 2014); Hero or Zero? (12/04/2012); The Adversary? (12/05/2012); Magick and Prayer? (10/29/2012); The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012)

“Shadowfire”, witchcraft centers on desire and lust for power using death and life essence (we say, breath, spirit, word).  GOD has revealed himself as a deity who operates using law and who executes judgment.  Covenant relationship with GOD established through the Ten Commandments and various other laws granted to Moses and the mixed multitude who accompanied him required exclusive devotion, obedience, and reverence to Jehovah.  Appealing to idols, occult figures, and supernatural influences had been practiced in Egypt.  During the time of famine there, Pharaoh purchased the land, their belongings, and the people themselves, and was eventually worshiped as a god.  Pharaoh enforced his authority using astrologers, magicians and those practicing “black arts” as well as by having an army equipped with the most advanced weaponry of the day (horse-drawn maneuverable chariots).  Christian believers are to maintain sacred practices (we say, sacraments) that acknowledge and display the active presence of divinity; and all are cautioned to discern (i.e., use the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD to recognize and respond correctly to) the spirit content within events, other people, the holy writings, themselves, etc.  Fallen angels, demons, deceiving spirits, and devils do exist; and while they no longer have lawful authority and power, many are still capable of making counterfeit displays and illusions that copy or imitate divine power.  In addition to making perverted and unintended applications of natural laws and materials provided by divinity for the fulfillment of sacred purposes, sorcerers (male witches) and female witches promote spiritual confusion by their efforts to gain knowledge of coming events, influence the outcome of events, and have control through enchantments, magic, and necromancy (i.e., seeking to communicate with the dead).  Consider the following:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 5:  8-10, King James Version (KJV):  8 Thou shalt not make 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 waters beneath the earth:  9 Thou shalt not bow down thyself unto 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,  10 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.

(2.)  Deuteronomy 18:  9-11, KJV:  9 When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations.  10 There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch.  11 Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer.

(3.)  Exodus 22:  18-21, KJV:  18 Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.  19 Whosoever lieth with a beast shall surely be put to death.  20 He that sacrificeth unto any god, save unto the LORD only, he shall be utterly destroyed.  21 Thou shalt neither vex a stranger, nor oppress him:  for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.

(4.)  1st Samuel 15:  22-24, KJV:  22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.  23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.  24 And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned:  for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words:  because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  1st Samuel 28:  6-8, KJV:  6 And when Saul enquired of the LORD, the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by Urim, nor by prophets.  7 Then said Saul unto his servants, Seek me a woman that hath a familiar spirit, that I may go to her, and enquire of her. And his servants said to him, Behold, there is a woman that hath a familiar spirit at Endor.  8 And Saul disguised himself, and put on other raiment, and he went, and two men with him, and they came to the woman by night:  and he said, I pray thee, divine unto me by the familiar spirit, and bring me him up, whom I shall name unto thee.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/15/2014) Death is a Divine Tool

Death, evil, mortality, and divine purpose are considered, today.  A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “Complex Maker” (Level 7 with 29,956 points, a member since November 20, 2010) posted the following:


Why did God make it everything has to die someday isn't he the one that's evil?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Not Images Used in Worship? (09/14/2014)—(5.)  The use of images and physical materials to express belief, and for believers to identify themselves to one another is not idol worship.  While objects may be set apart (we say, consecrated, sanctified) for exclusive use in holy service (e.g., crosses used in sacred procession, prayer chambers, holy ground, fragrant substances and their incense burners), among Christians, no inanimate object or thing is exalted as though it contains, or acts on behalf of a deity.  Christian symbols are not to be confused with occult objects fashioned to permit human alteration and control through magic.  Included are such devises as amulets, candles, lucky charms, gem stones, and talismans.  Like Aaron’s rod that budded, the rod of GOD that was used by Moses was a device to make visible divine authority and sacred election as well as the active presence of GOD. 

(6.)  In the same way Christians are not confused or embarrassed to see film actors who portray biblical characters in movies and TV programs, because they understand the process is not one of making false claims for reverence and worship, believers do not see paintings and other imaginative depictions of Jesus as being counterfeits, idols, or misrepresentations of divinity.  There are ordinary objects that have been used to trigger operations of the faith that resides within believers.  For example, aprons and handkerchiefs were used by the apostles of the early church when healing; icons have been used; blessed beads and cords have been used when reciting psalms and other prayer cycles; and the cup used for the Lord’s Supper was venerated as a holy grail.  Even so, at no time were such objects identified as having value apart from the divine purpose of salvation, or the imparted Spirit that indwells the entire body of believers, the Holy Ghost.  Rather than human institutions and man-made objects, those created of GOD through the process of interaction focused upon Christ are the true repository for divine power and presence.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  So these things shall be for a statute of judgment unto you throughout your generations in all your dwellings.  Whoso killeth any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of witnesses:  but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die.  Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death:  but he shall be surely put to death.  And ye shall take no satisfaction for him that is fled to the city of his refuge, that he should come again to dwell in the land, until the death of the priest.  So ye shall not pollute the land wherein ye are:  for blood it defileth the land:  and the land cannot be cleansed of the blood that is shed therein, but by the blood of him that shed it.  Defile not therefore the land which ye shall inhabit, wherein I dwell:  for I the LORD dwell among the children of Israel.  (Numbers 35:  29-34, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014);  Freedom of Foul Speech? (09/10/2014); On Death and Pain (05/08/2014); A “Good” Verse? (05/09/2014); Resurrection from the Dead? (04/23/2014); Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); Sin Causes Death? (02/04/2014); Succession (02/05/2014)


“Complex Maker”, where you are able to shift your thinking to see from a different point of view, here are a few ideas that have come from GOD that should be useful:

(1.)  Life is GOD’s intent, however, death is GOD’s tool.  Death is not simply a punishment for sin, or a way to condemn those who make mistakes.  Death is used to cleanse and continue the earth as a sphere of life; and death furthers the dynamic of life that is change and movement generated by diversity and imbalance.  Death as a consequence in divine judgment permits mankind a portion of the consciousness and experience had by divinity; and reveals the otherwise unseen compassion, integrity, reliability, and righteousness of GOD.

(2.)  As understood among Christian believers, the word “evil” does not mean “bad”, “sinful” or “wicked”.  In the holy writings GOD proclaims:  I form the light, and create darkness:  I make peace, and create evil:  I the Lord do all these things (Isaiah 45:  7, KJV).  We speak of divine evil as calamity; catastrophe; sudden, sweeping change; upheaval.  Human evil, then, is destruction; arbitrary, uncalled for, and unnecessary change; change that provides no balance or benefit.

(3.)  The childish complaint that “GOD won’t let us have our way” is false.  GOD does allow mankind to challenge his environment, to alter and question the boundaries for human existence.  Even so, many of the boundaries must remain in place for the sake of divine order, and to allow mankind to have clarity, focus, stability, and value.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Death is only one observable fact of the full divine plan for our universe.  In addition to death, through Jesus Christ, there are ongoing sacred operations for correction, healing, divine love, redemption, resurrection, salvation, sanctification, and eternal life.  Following final judgment, mortality will no longer exist.  Mankind will be transformed, and become both immortal and incorruptible to live with Christ upon the earth.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/14/2014) Miracles Are From GOD

Deception, discernment, magic and miracles are topics, today, along with more on faith that is given by GOD.  A “Yahoo Answers” writer using the ID “Maurog IV” (Level 7 with 73,842 points, a member since May 24, 2011) posted the following:


What's the difference between magic and miracles?

If you see someone do it, can you tell if it's magical or miraculous?

Additional Details

If I see someone walking on water, or multiplying groceries, how do I check if he's God-powered or magic-powered, I mean. Do I just ask or something?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Faith Given By GOD (03/13/2014)—(5.)  In the same way a believer’s personal (we say, private) opinion, or viewpoint has no value as the “official” divine doctrines and teachings from Christ, ones own heartfelt beliefs, convictions and passion do not have the same importance and worth as faith that is imparted from the GODhead.  Divinely supplied faith is spirit matter, rather than the products of emotion, imagination, intellect, and reason.  Until they “grow up again” believers reborn through baptism operate with faith as an added or optional feature within a full mix of their own finite, and human attributes.  Thus, their faith at first expresses mostly carnal desires, doubts, worthless goals, vain hopes, self-will, and uncertainty, that does not carry out, demonstrate, or display the will of GOD.  Even so, GOD does not deny or reject the faith that may reside within believers, for it is his own sacred person, and substance (we say, the divine nature, the image of GOD).  See Genesis 1:  26-28, Matthew 26:  42, Luke 11:  2, Romans 10:  13-17, Hebrews 11:  6 and 1st Peter 1:  18-21, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And there came an angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah, that pertained unto Joash the Abiezrite:  and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide it from the Midianites.  And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour.  And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? but now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.  And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites:  have not I sent thee?  (Judges 6:  12-14, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Miracles and Visitations? (03/03/2014); All Lying Forbidden? (03/04/2014); Miracles are Sacred Events (12/20/2013); Resisting Sin (12/21/2013); Believers and the Cross (06/24/2013); A Relationship not Just Knowledge? (06/25/2013); Magical Resurrection? (03/20/2013); Eat His Body, Drink His Blood (03/21/2013); Magick and Prayers? (10/29/2012); The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012); Aliens? (09/24/2012); Prosperity Destroys Fools (09/25/2012)


“Maurog IV”, here are a few points to consider that have been useful among Christian believers to avoid deception and spiritual confusion:

(1.)  In addition to covenants, genealogies, judgments and promises, the divine record shared among believers (i.e., the Bible) documents instances of magic, sorcery, and witchcraft along with notable miracles performed by the agents and witnesses (we say, apostles) sent by GOD.

(2.)  In the Book of Acts, Simon Magus, a powerful sorcerer of Samaria, was so impressed by the preaching and miracles of the evangelist (Deacon Philip), he was baptized and joined the early church as a member.  Later, when Peter and John appeared, laying hands on the believers that they might receive the Holy Ghost, the sorcerer was so awed, he offered Peter money for the secret to the trick.  The unsanctified former wizard could not tell the difference between magic and miracles.

(3.)  Miracles are sacred events in support of divine operations such as atonement, covenant, judgment, prophecy, rebirth, revelation and sanctification.  Miracles must be discerned (i.e., examined and legitimated) by using spiritual things to focus upon all the genuine spirit content an event may impart.  Both the holy writings, and the Spirit from GOD that resides within believers then are sacred tools and standards for assessing life experience, identifying divine process, and recognizing eternal purpose.

There is a lot more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example (4.)  Miracles appear in association with faith, yet, are not spirit substance as is faith.  Miracles appear using flesh and material objects in open and “public” settings.  Faith is itself an aspect of full divinity, and continually affirms and interacts with such other spirit matter as holiness, longsuffering, love, divine wisdom, and wrath against sin.)   Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.  Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.  Amen.  (Ephesians 6:  23-24, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/24/2013) Believers and the Cross

The proper meaning and use of the cross is today’s topic; also, there is more on money-changers in the Temple at Jerusalem.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Kca404” (Level 3 with 2,146 points, a member since February 18, 2008) posted the following:


Christians whats with crosses?

I mean think about it. If you were jesus and you came back from a 2000 year nap would you really want to look around and see the instrument of your demise everywhere?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013)—It was more than 400 years after Malachi that Israel was again blessed to receive anointed prophets, first through John the Baptist, then, through the ministry of Jesus.  Not only did the money-changers as a continuing fixture at Jerusalem give the appearance that the Temple was a secular institution where spiritual redemption and salvation could be bought and sold with money (e.g., thirty pieces of silver), where divination and prophecy were available as services-for-hire, and where the law and judgment executed under GOD were made to appear subject to bribery and the giving of material gifts, and legitimate fines and penalties of the law could be annulled and circumvented.  While the economy of Israel as a nation had been established by GOD centering upon acknowledgment of divinity through support of the Tabernacle, the presence of the money-changers continued as a tradition and was not an anointed priesthood.  Fulfilling prophesies written in Isaiah, Jesus is also to be seen as the ruler anointed by GOD, as opposed to one appointed by Rome, and coming to the Temple as “king of the Jews.”  See Deuteronomy 12:  1-32, Leviticus 27:  30-34, Micah 3:  10-12, KJV.  Also, see Isaiah 43:  15-28, Matthew 21:  8-16 and John 12:  12-15, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel:  not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.  For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.  For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.  Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?  For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.  For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:  But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;  But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.  Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.  For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:  But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;  And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:  That no flesh should glory in his presence.  (1st Corinthians 1:  17-29, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Purchased With Blood? (12/29/2012); The Law Not Flawed (12/30/2012); Signs of Messianic Belief? (12/16/2012); Vows and Covenants? (12/17/2012); Holiday Displays? (12/07/2012); An Attack Upon Creation? (12/08/2012); On Religious Items (08/29/2012); On Cults (08/30/2012)


“Kca404”, here are some points familiar to mature believers in Jesus Christ as their redeemer and savior:

(1)  The cross is not an idol (i.e., an object believed to contain a divine spirit or god that must be appealed to for safety, power and prosperity, and that must be shown respect and worship).  Also, the cross is not a talisman or instrument for working charms and magic spells.  Rightly understood, the cross is not an adornment or decoration to be worn as an object that beautifies.

(2)  As items in sacred service, crosses are like communion ware and incense burners that have importance as utensils and dedicated articles used in praise, prayer, and communal worship (e.g., the chalice, the monstrance, the paten).  Along with prayer and sacred utterance that sets an area apart as sacred and sanctified, the cross is often used to identify a place for inviting and acknowledging Christ.

(3)  The power of the cross is that a singular consciousness of GOD, and faith are crystallized, focused and increased within the awareness of those who confess need for salvation.  The cross, therefore, serves as a tool of divine prophecy that continually comforts, edifies, and exhorts.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example,  (4)  Believers realize that Jesus is not asleep and is not dead.  Jesus is presently completing divine operations in the heavens on behalf of mankind that include atonement and cleansing of the Temple, preparation to harvest and reap believers from the earth, and preparations for final judgment of the wicked.)   Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/20/2013) Magical Resurrection?

The importance of resurrection to Christian belief is topic, today, along with further discussion of divine grace. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Howard” (Level 2 with 359 points, a member since March 13, 2013) posted the following:


Can a Christian not believe in the magical resurrection of Mr. Christ and still be a Christian?

Additional Details

"I don't believe in any 'magical' resurrection, and I'm a Christian." The preacher man was dead and decomposing for three days. His stinking corpse was infested with maggots. Then he rose from the dead. That is one heck of a magic trick.

My question: Is this disgusting fantasy a required belief in Christianity?

THE BATTLE AXE: The Benefit of Grace (03/19/2013)—Many confuse grace with forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering and patience. In the holy writings, grace repeatedly comes into view as we speak of acceptance, approval, and being assigned positive value despite events that display ongoing judgment against sin. (For examples, see Genesis 6: 8 and 19: 19, Exodus 33: 17 and Ezra 9: 7-9, KJV). Men do not obtain grace from GOD on the basis of their obedience, service and good works as though grace is payment or divine reward. This allows us to say, grace is endorsement that comes through perfect dependency upon GOD, and through the elevation of divine will over self-will within created beings and living creatures. Grace does not serve to eliminate or remove challenge, condemnation, pain and suffering. Awareness of grace gives power to face up to and endure opposition. For mankind, grace is revealed and becomes most visible through human confrontations against fixed conditions of being, experience, sacred law (i.e., judgment), and human suffering. While suffering is associated with compassion and pity, suffering is not the sole cause for their appearance. Similarly, suffering has no power to generate, or call forth divine grace. While grace neither causes nor takes suffering away, ones awareness of grace continues discernment of divine presence, and permits continuous focus upon divinity throughout the outworking of divine process.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead. (Acts 17: 29-31, King James Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013); Understanding Hell (01/09/2013); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013); The Common Danger (01/02/2013); The Price of Humanity? (12/13/2012); Remembering the Holocaust? (12/14/2012); Given the Cloud of Witnesses (11/29/2012); A Golden Ticket? (11/30/2012); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012); Opportunity to Repent (11/02/2012); Magick and Prayer? (10/29/2012); The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012); After We Die? (10/04/2012)

Dear Howard:

your question, and the way you have stated your feelings indicate that what you think you know about Christian belief is distorted, profane, unbiblical and warped. The mocking title (Mr. Christ), tells us you do not know Jesus in a personal way, and you presently are not welcoming a right relationship with GOD through Christ. Even so, consider the following points:

(1) It is logical and reasonable to believe that an almighty, eternal GOD having power to create all that is in the earth, the sea, and the heavens also has power over life and death. On the basis of their content of divine substance, the Creator continually examines and assigns value to the objects within the full sphere of divine presence, and thereby determines the duration of their existence. Such a divine operation could be called “judgment.”

(2) Presently, only GOD, who is spirit, is immortal. There are no created beings and living creatures that are immortal (including angels, devils, and the sacred beasts of heaven). Mankind is mortal, and must complete and fulfill specific criteria that describe human experience. Included are birth, growth, kinship, learning, repentance, and suffering.

(3) Given that self-will in the living may be dominated by sin, death is a divine tool to establish eternal life, and a stage necessary for the transformation of human makeup. Through the use of death and resurrection, mankind may be established as incorruptible and immortal.

(4) By raising Lazarus from the dead, Christ demonstrated on earth the power of GOD in heaven to revive all the dead. Nonetheless, Lazarus later died, as did Jesus. Resurrection is more than merely the reanimation of the dead; it is the entrance into divine presence and realization of ones own eternal person.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the holy writings teach that there must be two resurrections, one for the just, one for the wicked. Just as here on earth, every person must appear in the presence of GOD for their own judgment to personally answer the charges and indictments against themselves. That judgment is only upon the living further reveals the righteousness of GOD, the divine Judge.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/30/2012) The Fear of GOD

     I may have come to the finish of this work; opposition has risen to dangerous levels.  Readers have been given a reasonable opportunity to grow and share using my work for many years.  In addition to an archive of 150 postings at “Yahoo! Pulse” that are now no longer available, 255 documents previously posted are missing from thoughts.com, including three full-length bible-based books that were shared in serial presentation.  WordPress.com continues to display only some 490 articles.  Even though I used three different Internet sites to post yesterday’s presentation, not one was able to display my documents with all the usual formatting.  It may have been a result of the storm.  Today, I focus on what it means to be GOD-fearing.  Also, there is more on magic and prayers.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Garrett” (Level 2 with 809 points, a member since May 6, 2012) posted the following:


Christians, is it good to be "God-fearing"?

(Mark 12:28-30) 28 Now one of the scribes that had come up and heard them disputing, knowing that he had answered them in a fine way, asked him: “Which commandment is first of all?” 29 Jesus answered: “The first is, ‘Hear, O Israel, Jehovah our God is one Jehovah, 30 and you must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind and with your whole strength.’
It seems I always here people saying "I will raise my kids to be good, god fearing adults" Or something to that extent, telling people it's good to be god fearing.
However if the above passage point's towards saying that is not the right thing.... What is your opinion?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Magick and Prayer? (10/29/2012)—The various forms of magic (e.g., angel magic, candle magic, crystal magic) all allow and introduce (1) deception, lying and manipulation of truth; (2) the influence of sin over self-will, (3) surrender of ones own will in obedience to aggressive and hostile powers outside of oneself, and (4) destructive competition among themselves by beings in hierarchies of authority and dominion.  Traditionally, the focus of witchcraft has been securing beauty, longevity, and control of storms and weather events as well as sexual initiations.  A male witch is called a “sorcerer”; and as heads of covens, the berserks exercise terrible power and specialize in corruption, cruelty, death, deception, massive destruction, wickedness, and violence.  While they are often compared to pimps in prostitution, they are, in fact, off the scale.  The operation of godly prayer is to achieve and bring about change within ones own attitudes, behavior and understanding, and is not intended to gain control over others or permit manipulating the outcome of natural events and social exchanges.   Saying this another way:  Prayer gives full glory, honor and power to GOD over ones own being and substance, and is counter to sin, the influence that may dominate the will of created beings and living creatures that opposes the existence of divinity.  Sin operates upon awareness as denial of divine being, sacred law, and everything that exists as created by GOD.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master:  if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear? saith the LORD of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?  Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the LORD is contemptible.  And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? and if ye offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the LORD of hosts.  And now, I pray you, beseech God that he will be gracious unto us:  this hath been by your means:  will he regard your persons? saith the LORD of hosts.  Who is there even among you that would shut the doors for nought? neither do ye kindle fire on mine altar for nought.  I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your hand.  For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering:  for my name shall be great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.  (Malachi 1:  6-11, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Christian Modesty (10/15/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012); Binder 13:  Where Is My Fear? (10/10/2011); Awesomeness? (12/19/2010)


     Fear of the Lord (also called “awe” and “reverence”) is an important aspect of full awareness and devotion to GOD, and always appears where there is right relationship between the created and their Creator.  While many seek personal relationship with GOD, there must be a peculiar distance and separation that affirms the majesty and sovereign nature of divine person, and that generates balance, maturity and stability.  Fear of the Lord is counter to arrogance, presumption, pride, and self-promotion.

     Fear—anticipating damage and loss; anxiety; feelings and emotions of being under threat; lack of confidence; uncertainty—is generated from the flesh (appetite, sensation, and mind), where fear of the Lord is produced by an imparted, indwelling spirit from GOD, the Holy Spirit.  The Scriptures declare that “fear is torment” referring to being afraid and scared, conditions that often result from dreams, fantasy, imagination and projection, aspects of mind that lack both sacred content, and material substance.  Another name given “fear of the Lord” is “love”, and perfect love (developed, mature commitment) casts out fleshly fear (see 1st John 4:  8, KJV).

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, fear of the Lord is not expressed by avoidance, denial and running from the things given by GOD, and should characterize response to having access and structuring ones approach to GOD.  Correctly understood as consciousness derived from multiple divine operations, fear of the Lord includes such elements as confession, humility, obedience, respect, surrender, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC