(08/23/2020) What The Cave Comprehended

I recently heard a sermon broadcast at familyradio.org that included an account of the Cave and the Sun visiting one another so they might understand the other’s repeated references to “darkness” and “light”. As Christian believers, our anchor and focus for answering the challenging discourse and thoughts others share must always be the proclamations, promises, prophecies and unchanging purpose we receive from divinity. In that presentation, the Cave first visited the Sun and was dazzled by the presence of light that appeared to be everywhere. When the Sun made its visit to be with the Cave, the Cave led the Sun to a deep crevice to see gross darkness. However, both the Cave and the Sun saw only light. The Cave displayed isolated pits and other locations to the Sun. However, they all were filled with light. The Cave remarked that these places were filled with darkness until the coming of the Sun; and to me the point of the sermon seemed to be, life throughout Creation was filled with darkness until the coming of Jesus Christ. In reflecting on what I had heard, I realized the Cave and the Sun account is regarded by many as a classic of wisdom, yet, I remained unwilling to become entangled in fleshly truth or discourse that challenges the Bible. Beyond the cycles of darkness that present shadows and night there are multiple aspects of darkness that serve divinity. Included are gross darkness, obscure darkness, unfathomable darkness, and unspeakable darkness. Similar accounts have been found among the Sufi as well as the writings of Plato; and have been held to be an allegory, analogy, or parable distinct from a fable (that provides a lesson using animals and objects that speak). It is written: Isaiah 60: 18-20, King James Version (KJV): 18 Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise. 19 The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. 20 Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and the selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

THE GOLDEN ARROW: In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me. Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living? (Psalms 56: 11-13, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Process and Substance (06/24/2020); Divinity Commanded the Void (01/28/2020); The Light Of Life (12/04/2019); To Learn From GOD (11/11/2019); When the Donkey Speaks? (11/03/2016); Living In The Light? (01/18/2015); Balaam (10/15/2013)

(1.) 2^nd Peter 1: 16-19, King James Version (KJV): 16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

(2.) John 1: 1-5, KJV: 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

(3.) 1^st Samuel 2: 8-10, KJV: 8 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD’s, and he hath set the world upon them. 9 He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. 10 The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the LORD shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed.

(4.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 5-7, KJV: 5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

(5.) 1st John 1: 5-7, KJV: 5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

(6.) Malachi 4: 1-3, KJV: 1 For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. 2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. 3 And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in the day that I shall do this, saith the LORD of hosts.

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

Image downloaded 12:38 PM, August 20, 2020 @ https://takelight.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/suncave.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/12/2020) The Meaning Of "Persecution"

Today, guidance and thoughts are shared on oppression, persecution, and suffering endured by followers of Jesus Christ. Spiritual discernment must be used to obtain relief from persecution, and to recognize and respond to the victory of Jesus Christ over persecution. Governments may operate as a godlike, invincible, all powerful, unseen actor. Persecution occurs as a conflict among two or more powerful belief systems (e.g., a religious and a government power). More than simply bribery, petty crimes, dishonest behavior, and misrepresentation by individual sinners who work in government should come into view, for during persecution official policies and procedures are altered in order to systematically destroy and suppress alternative belief systems. As a form of belief system themselves, nations and states are vulnerable to manipulation by religious powers because, only by abiding in obedience and genuine respect to godly law do nations escape confusion, self-destruction, ruin, and sin. The Constitution of the United States extends freedom of conscience to those acknowledging Jesus Christ as their Savior as well as to those who are atheists, to disbelievers in Christianity, to Satanists, and to those committed to other belief systems and forms of faith. Even so, all Americans are held to the same standards for co-existence, peaceful exchange, public order, and shared respect. When Christians focus more on tribulation spoken of in prophecy, rather than on the soon coming of Christ, many are quick to sound an alarm against persecution. Developing Christians, and those who are not members of the church, complain and make false accusations that the church is now enduring persecution and suffering; and they protest that the church will not be able to survive within the present World system that relies on carnal reason, philosophy, science, secular knowledge, technology, and violence. While the church is to be vigilant, life experience on the earth demands that the living regularly engage in meaningful activity, be nourished, work, and rest. That we exist within communities composed of multiple ethnic groups, of those who use different languages, and of those on varying levels of economic, intellectual, and social growth is not a condition of oppression and persecution. That we as individuals are not immediately rewarded or shown favor for every act of kindness we perform; that we encounter seasons of hardship; that we must go to school and pay for education, tools, and training; that we are required to work long hours; and will be held accountable for finding and maintaining necessary food, shelter, and clean water for ourselves, family, or other companions are not examples of persecution or suffering. Neither is it persecution that many of us come under obligation to fulfill unpleasant duties; are pressured to divulge secrets and speak truth continually; and may daily come under various forms of challenge, judgment, review and testing. It is written: Galatians 4: 28-29, King James Version (KJV): 28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. 29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined. For the wicked boasteth of his heart’s desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth. The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts. His ways are always grievous; thy judgments are far above out of his sight: as for all his enemies, he puffeth at them. He hath said in his heart, I shall not be moved: for I shall never be in adversity. His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and fraud: under his tongue is mischief and vanity. He sitteth in the lurking places of the villages: in the secret places doth he murder the innocent: his eyes are privily set against the poor. He lieth in wait secretly as a lion in his den: he lieth in wait to catch the poor: he doth catch the poor, when he draweth him into his net. He croucheth, and humbleth himself, that the poor may fall by his strong ones. He hath said in his heart, God hath forgotten: he hideth his face; he will never see it. Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up thine hand: forget not the humble. (Psalms 10: 2-12, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Kings, Popes, Priests, Prophets? (09/22/2019); Suffering Among the Saved (03/12/2019); Divine Fruit From Suffering? (12/19/2018); An Account of Persecution (12/03/2018); Fear Them Not Therefore (12/29/2017); Testing and Divine Process (06/12/2017); A Price for Religious Liberty? (06/30/2015)

Cases of persecution on the earth must be tried in the higher courts of heaven. Ordinarily, we think of government and religion as contrary to one another, and like oil and water, should not be mixed. In the same way “hate crimes” are easy to recognize, yet are very difficult to prosecute in courts on the earth, government damage by offenses against divinity and from “persecution” may be strongly felt by Christian believers and throughout a community of faith, yet, credible cases and claims demanding relief are difficult to bring before the courts maintained among mankind. Mature Christian believers acknowledge persecution as more than simple human bullying, meddling, incompetence, or hidden interpersonal conflict anchored in the meanness, exaggerated pride, and selfishness existing between individuals who are known to one another. During periods of persecution, confusion, deceit, distrust, fear, helplessness, and hopelessness may prevail. Thrusts that on surface are acceptable, justified and legitimate are made against the continued existence of divine law, against operations of the Holy Spirit, and against the church as a living sacred presence.

When there is persecution, a strong religious coalition influences, manipulates, and uses human government as a tool to suppress the doctrine, growth, and practice of other religious groups. Persecution is a form of widespread lawlessness that encourages bias, despair, discrimination, inequality, irreverence, prejudice, and racism. To disrupt ongoing operations of a targeted assembly, the government is used to cover up and disguise malfeasance and fraud, decree malicious legislation, authorize excessive law enforcement practices, pursue espionage, and seize the belongings and property of others. Individuals in positions of authority, leadership and trust within the targeted groups may be assassinated, corrupted, incarcerated, publicly tried and executed, slandered or tortured, and their families may be divided and separated. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Dietrick Haddon with Donnie McClurkin:

(1.) Matthew 5: 10-12, King James Version (KJV): 10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

(2.) 2^nd Timothy 3: 12, KJV: 12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

(3.) Acts 13: 49-50, KJV: 49 And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region. 50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.

(4.) Ephesians 6: 10-13, KJV: 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v0GNf6haCIA.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:00 AM, February 11, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvT-dOPhmWkgF2CLkaisw8MvgkOyPnD59ZyjEz5j0D-S4_W8bSsQI7nxnX0Dq6y4UEBjSdYiJyfK-K5BCvYpJYv-Ja1P5Au47lPJ2q0yZkrodN0Ep9DqtYBY3jjgY8Xe3FEslobpVvBRo/s1600/UNCLE-SAM-PRAYING.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/07/2019) GOD Present Within Words

Today, reply is on translating the Bible into English and other languages. “Faith comes by hearing” means by comprehending, understanding, and properly fitting together the spirit content shared from divinity, rather than by reacting to noises or sounds from speech and utterance. GOD is not the author of confusion. The Bible is a collection and full library made up from fragments and original manuscripts written using multiple ancient languages (e.g., Aramaic, Babylonian, Hebrew, Greek, Latin), describing multiple appearances on earth by the pattern of priesthood in heaven, and documenting multiple covenant agreements and relationships between divinity and mankind from various regions and territories (e.g., Canaan, Judea, Macedonia, Syria), from different government documents and officials as well as from multiple sacred writers (e.g., apostles, evangelists, priests, prophets). The ancient materials must be handled carefully because they are delicate and easily damaged. Preserving the physical artifact is important; however, more important is continuing their admonition, authority, guidance, instruction, sacred law, spirit content, and prophetic vision imparted from divinity. It is written: Ecclesiastes 12: 10-14, King James Version (KJV): 10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. 11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. 12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh. 13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” pubic forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Me and myself” (Level 1 with 68 points) posted the following:

Did Jesus Christ speak English?

If Not, then Why do we consider the Bible written in English to be the word of God rather than the word of the translators?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. (Revelation 22: 18-21, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Kingdom Within You (09/26/2019); According To Your Faith (08/15/2019); The Word From GOD (12/11/2018); GOD Appearing As Word (01/14/2016); From Cover to Cover? (01/04/2016); Unclear Scriptures? (03/18/2014); Needing Guns To Serve? (03/19/2014); Translation, Please… (01/11/2013); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013)

“Me and myself”, developing Christian believers are encouraged to think of the Bible as the word “from” GOD proclaimed using apostles, elders (patriarchs), heads of tribes, judges, kings, prophets, and other anointed spokespersons, rather than academicians, politicians, professors, “thought leaders,” and translators. The letter and specific wording of sacred messages, teachings, and visions can be discrete, and separate from the spirit content that they convey and project using the exact same words. Those who serve as scribes and translators for the holy writings, are not chosen on the basis of their scholastic achievement, professional reputation, and secular knowledge. They are chosen on the basis of their sacred knowledge, spiritual anointing, commitment, discernment, experience, and maturity. They must be disciplined, give attention to detail, and obey strict rules for the work, because within a manuscript (we say, the text) many subtleties will appear (barely visible differences; sudden shifts in intent, meaning, quality, and value). Also, many of the decisions made for interpretations and what finally will be presented must be agreed upon through a process like that of “peer review.”

Because GOD is a spirit, human communication with GOD, for GOD, and about GOD must contain and deposit into others aspects of the same spirit substances that are fitted together as divine fullness (we say, the makeup of GOD; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Among mankind, language, audible speech, use of utterance, and expressing emotions and thoughts with gestures, movements, and words are human tools that allow agreement, influence on the emotional and intellectual content of others, shared focus on material objects, and social interaction.

Properly understood, the achievements of Bible translators are accomplished through operations of the Holy Spirit. Being diffuse, immaterial, and without physical form, divinity can operate within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of created beings and living creatures, and exists within the living as life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word). Where the Bible is presented in translation that uses different languages, forms of expression and meaning equal to the original direction, focus, texture, tone and the various aspects of spirit must be acknowledged and embodied so that the presence and substance of divinity to be imparted is preserved, and is not altered or changed. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Marty Goetz:

1. Proverbs 30: 5-6, King James Version (KJV): 5 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

2. John 6: 63, KJV: 63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

3. Revelation 21: 5-8, KJV: 5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. 6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se9uQrCQAe8.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:28 AM, November 06, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/236x/51/04/5e/51045ebd84fa2416c83d8d5c7c4d8bb2.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/14/2019) Meaning of "Father, forgive"

Today, the reply considers possible meanings for the words Jesus Christ spoke from the cross, and other ways he could have pleaded that mankind might receive atonement, forgiveness, sacred knowledge, and salvation. Because the divine process of speech and utterance is actually one of breath and spirit joining created beings and living creatures to the immortal, invisible Creator, readers of the Bible apprehending imparted substance from the makeup of divinity should always come into view. Throughout the holy writings, praises, prayers and statements appear that are simple, yet, they are profound, for they are appearances of the active presence who is GOD. While a discrete message or request may be identified, the operation of Spirit is broad and diffuse. A single word may convey multiple meanings, and serve as the seed for multiple effects and inseparable understandings. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

According to Christians, Jesus says "forgive them father, for they know not what they do"?

So how could Christians claim that atheists, or people of other faiths, will be punished under Christian law, when the sacrificed one included those who didn't know they were in the wrong??

THE GOLDEN ARROW: It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. (John 6: 63, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Not By Bread Only (02/22/2019); Faith Throughout the Scriptures? (01/04/2019); The Mystery of GODhead (10/21/2018); On Selecting Scripture Verses (04/11/2018); The Divinity of “Word” (01/26/2018); Holy Writings and Spirit? (12/16/2016); Books Having Sacred Knowledge? (10/25/2016); Divine Meanings and Values? (03/31/2016)

“Anonymous”, among mature Christian believers the meaning of “Father forgive them” is not the same as “father approve them,” “Father, cancel the sacred process of judgment against them that is essential to divine existence,” or “Father, make no feeling or thinking response to the behavior of imperfect creatures.” Other plain words that convey the same direction, focus, and intent include:

1. “Father, endow them with sacred knowledge along with their secular knowledge, and grant them better tools having the authority and power of divine content, rather than such finite tools as intellect, logic, philosophy, science, technology and human willpower.

2. Father I ask that you will continue this peculiar revelation of divine fullness (we also say, Deity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) whereby invisible, unseen spirit is made knowable, known, accessible, and approachable.

3. Father, in spite of error, sin and wickedness among the living, please continue to fulfill and perform the immutable, unchanging covenants, events and divine order that has been proclaimed, promised and prophesied for the benefit of all created beings and living creatures.

4. Father, rather than display our full wrath against sin, let us be in accord and impart to mankind inseparable aspects of our own character, makeup and substance such as faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, and wisdom.”

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. “Father, in the same way we have made a perpetual covenant for Adam, Abraham and Moses that continues through divine prerogative, eternal purpose, sacred law and the sovereign will of GOD, rather than relying upon the finite deeds and works of mankind, let us establish a new testament in my blood to accomplish atonement, mercy in judgment, rebirth, redemption and the genuine salvation that will end mortality, and provide eternal life.”) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/01/2018) Bible Definitions Of Sin

Today, the reply provides a few straightforward definitions of “sin”. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “sun.deep0861” (Level 1 with 10 points, a member since February 29, 2012) posted the following:

What is sin, fundamentally and basically?

Why bible is based on sin

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. (Romans 6: 12-17, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Believers Must Receive Gifts (09/30/2018); Baptism, Rebirth, and Resurrection (09/18/2018); Natural Law, Enmity, Sin (05/25/2018); Standards For Godly Behavior (02/01/2018); Sin No “One-time” Event (01/03/2018); The Wages of Disobedience (08/04/2017); The Operations of Sin (07/25/2017); Christian Beliefs About Sin (07/20/2017)

“sun.deep0861”, sin is not basic or simple. In the same way, no one can find out all the things about yourself that you count as important for them to know without you telling them yourself, Christian believers are trusting that GOD is using the holy writings to make divinity knowable, known, accessible, and approachable (we say, the Creator is providing a revelation of himself) because no one else can. The Bible records the appearance of divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) using thousands of events, within thousands of human lives over the course of thousands of years. In addition to existence and life, divinity puts forth divine order throughout the universe, and these are maintained using divine law, standards, and values.

Sin is contrary to the character, makeup and process of divinity, and of all that live. The operations of sin oppose the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and the Creation that relies on sacred law. For the living (i.e., angels and mankind) sin is an enigma or mystery that can not be completely apprehended: Sin is no simple material thing that has been created by GOD, or by those he has created in heaven and on earth. Sin can not be eliminated by any ordinary act of destruction, brute force, reversal, or violence. Sin has no spirit content from GOD, yet, may dominate consciousness and self-will in created beings and living creatures. Sin promotes nonexistence, the dissolution of all things (including itself), and the return to conditions that were in place before the founding of heaven and earth (we say, chaos; confusion; and the diffusion, movement, and streaming of elements that no longer appear in existence that were unbounded by frameworks of time or space).

Important definitions of “sin” for mature Christians include the following that use language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st John 3: 4, King James Version (KJV): 4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.

(2.) James 4: 17, KJV: 17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

(3.) Romans 14: 23, KJV: 23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

(4.) John 8: 31-36, KJV: 31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 33 They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? 34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. 35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Galatians 5: 19-23, KJV: 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/09/2018) Firstborn Of Every Creature

A depiction of Noah and the ark with animals.

Today, reply is on the meanings for “first born” and “firstborn” in descriptions and titles applied to Jesus Christ through sacred law.  Just as full divine law for created beings and living creatures addresses obedience, inheritance and the transfer from the deceased to the living of real property (i.e., land and chattel), and the offering of gifts, sacrifices and service to divinity, divine law also reveals the sacred operations for redemption, resurrection, salvation, tribunals for divine judgment, permanent release from the conditions generated by mortality and sin as well as deliverance from the second death.  Through the workings of divine law, the followers of Jesus become the new creation in Christ that will be harvested from the earth at his Advent (we also say, his appearing; the Rapture; the Second Coming).  Because he displayed and fulfilled both divinity and perfected humanity on the earth, the Son himself is called the “firstborn” and “firstfruit” raised from among the dead by the Father through his sovereign glory, grace, love, and mercy.  The writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE” (Level 1 with 224 points, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:


What does Colossians 1:15 mean; Jesus is "the firstborn of every creature" when Gen 1:27 says Adam was first "created"?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.  And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled  In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:  (Colossians 1:  12-22, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Called “The Anointed One” (05/08/2018); His Enemies A Footstool (04/29/2018); Jesus Came To Fulfill? (01/16/2018); Christ Is The Firstborn (12/26/2017); The Line of Messiah? (09/03/2017); The Heir To Abraham (10/23/2016); Word, Son, and Christ? (08/24/2016); The Firstborn, Higher than Kings? (12/18/2012); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012)


“GRANNY NORINE”, where “first born” usually speaks to birth order, for mature Christian believers, “firstborn” speaks to accountability, rebirth, and imparted spirit content for those in relationship with GOD.  The appearance of divinity in human form on the earth as Jesus Christ was to ratify multiple divine covenants, promises, and prophecies that were to be fulfilled by the seed of Adam (the first pair), and could not otherwise be made actual and satisfied by created beings and living creatures.  Included were the accords established through Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Aaron, David, and Israel as a nation.  A principle and term of covenant is established that a people of GOD (a family, collection of tribes, nation, anointed ruler) may serve as the agent, representative, and spokesperson(s) on behalf of all Creation in continuing relationship with divinity.  Redemption is required to set apart and recover the defiled fruit of the earth that are required to be destroyed in accordance with divine law.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Genesis 3:  14-15, King James Version (KJV):  14 And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life:  15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

(2.)  Genesis 9:  8-13, KJV:  8 And God spake unto Noah, and to his sons with him, saying,  9 And I, behold, I establish my covenant with you, and with your seed after you;  10 And with every living creature that is with you, of the fowl, of the cattle, and of every beast of the earth with you; from all that go out of the ark, to every beast of the earth.  11 And I will establish my covenant with you, neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood; neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth.  12 And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations:  13 I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth.

(3.)  Exodus 13:  11-16, KJV:  11 And it shall be when the LORD shall bring thee into the land of the Canaanites, as he sware unto thee and to thy fathers, and shall give it thee,  12 That thou shalt set apart unto the LORD all that openeth the matrix, and every firstling that cometh of a beast which thou hast; the males shall be the LORD’s.  13 And every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break his neck:  and all the firstborn of man among thy children shalt thou redeem.  14 And it shall be when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What is this? that thou shalt say unto him, By strength of hand the LORD brought us out from Egypt, from the house of bondage:  15 And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast:  therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.  16 And it shall be for a token upon thine hand, and for frontlets between thine eyes:  for by strength of hand the LORD brought us forth out of Egypt.

(4.)  Numbers 3:  39-41,KJV:  39 All that were numbered of the Levites, which Moses and Aaron numbered at the commandment of the LORD, throughout their families, all the males from a month old and upward, were twenty and two thousand.  40 And the LORD said unto Moses, Number all the firstborn of the males of the children of Israel from a month old and upward, and take the number of their names.  41 And thou shalt take the Levites for me (I am the LORD) instead of all the firstborn among the children of Israel; and the cattle of the Levites instead of all the firstlings among the cattle of the children of Israel.

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/23/2017) The Flesh, Then Beyond

 

Today, reply is made to errors regarding the ethnicity, mortality, and worship of Jesus Christ.  It is correct to say that Jesus came to mankind through the Jews, yet, his origin and source was the fullness of divinity (we say, the GODhead), not mere flesh and blood.  Rather than as a matter of ethnic pride, special accomplishments of the Jewish people, or GOD being indebted to the Jews, the importance of Jesus appearing as a Hebrew, a prophet, the heir to King David, and the Anointed One had to do with the fulfillment of divine covenants, sacred promises, and solemn prophecies.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:


Why do christians worship a dead Jew ?

Update:  Christians do worship Jesus, Jesus is Jew.

Update 2:  @ Fireball : Jesus never said he was not Jewish anymore.

Update 3:  @L'nya : I said why, I don't care about what your cult said about the death of Jesus : it does not change the fact that this guy is a Jew.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.  (2nd Corinthians 5:  17, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Blame, Sin and Salvation? (02/13/2017); Also Called “The Amen” (01/29/2017); Does GOD Hate Jews? (10/03/2016); A Servant and More (08/17/2016); Discernment and Common Sense (05/17/2016); Tools for Revelation? (10/26/2015); The Evidence GOD Exists? (09/29/2015)


“Anonymous”, your way of thinking and speaking about Jesus Christ does not seem to come from the same origin and points of reference relied on by mature Christian believers.  Those who acknowledge that GOD is a spirit, also must accept definitions, meanings and values that are different from those that agree with secular instead of sacred knowledge, the domination of awareness and self-will by sin, and the enmity, imbalance, and partiality found in the world.  It may help you understand why others insist upon disagreeing with you where you will consider the following points:

(1.)  Many acknowledge Jesus as having come in flesh, was killed on the cross, resurrected from the dead, and lifted up again into heaven.  For them, Jesus is not dead today, will never die again, is justified of GOD, and is now immortal, incorruptible and soon to be glorified.  Thus it is written:  Romans 6:  8-10, King James Version (KJV):  8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:  9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.  10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once:  but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.

(2.)  Given their continuous covenant relationship and the special operations of divinity upon their character and nature, what it means to be a “Jew” goes beyond carnal, material, and social understandings.  Thus, it is written:  Romans 2:  28-29, KJV:  28 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:  29 But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.

(3.)  Given that Christ was born to engage and carry men beyond their condition of flesh and blood to being a new creation through the Spirit, his authority, “credentials” and substance must be known in terms of divine promise, prophecy, and eternal purpose.  Thus it is written:  Isaiah 11:  1-5, KJV:  1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:  2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;  3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD:  and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:  4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth:  and he shall smite the earth:  with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.  5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.) Worship of divinity that is acceptable and genuine to GOD goes beyond sinners agonizing over sins, or “legalism” (believers rendering mindless and slavish obedience to the strict letter of the law).  The divine nature is to be discerned, conformed to, and displayed.  The righteousness in the law is to be maintained as active and present.  Thus it is written:  John 4:  23-24, KJV:  23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth:  for the Father seeketh such to worship him.  24 God is a Spirit:  and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.)   Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(05/08/2017) Meanings for "Apostolic Church"

 

Today, points are shared on the apostolic nature and process of the church founded by Jesus Christ.  For many, the Scriptures describe “the apostolic church” most clearly through 1st Corinthians 12:  27-28, King James Version (KJV):  27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.  28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.  Also, Ephesians 4:  10-15, KJV:  10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)  11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;  12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:  13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:  14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;  15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:  The themes of reconciliation, revival, outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and resurrection are vital to most communities that display Christian faith working to spread the Gospel for it remains that eternal life within mortals on the earth, begun through acceptance of Jesus as Redeemer and Savior, continues to be interrupted and opposed by death, error, and sin.  More than church building by adding believers through water baptism, establishing new congregations, and preaching to new assemblies, the work of apostles has been to embody and share the presence and person of Jesus.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Bruce” (Level 7 with 107,295 points, a member since August 12, 2007) posted the following:


Would an "apostolic" church be led by the successors of the apostles, or by people who read about the apostles in the Bible?

From the Nicene Creed: "I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church." Which church is that?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.  For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.  And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.  Then they that gladly received his word were baptized:  and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.  And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.  And fear came upon every soul:  and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.  And all that believed were together, and had all things common;  And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.  And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,  Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.  (Acts 2:  38-47, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Receiving The Holy Spirit (12/08/2016); Hierarchy Among Christians (01/22/2016); Hierarchy For Mankind(01/24/2016); A True Apostle? (09/20/2015); Many Forms of Christianity? (04/30/2015); Cornelius, and Prayer By Sinners? (03/09/2015); Before Getting Baptized? (11/28/2013); The Rich in Divine Relationship? (11/29/2013)


“Bruce”, here are some points that many mature Christian believers have found useful when shaping their commitment to the incarnate, institutional expression of Jesus Christ as “the church”:

1)  In the early church, the apostles were not all trained as disciples by Jesus during his ministry years on the earth.  Even so, all were endowed by the Holy Spirit to authenticate his doctrine and teaching; to provide reliable “eye-witness” testimony of the Savior’s resurrection; to show the agreement and conformity of Christian belief to prophecy, sacred promise, and the holy writings; to indicate false teaching, counterfeit spiritual gifts, and error as well as to certify every true falling of the Holy Spirit.  The appearance and manifesting of the Comforter (also called the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) who was sent in power at Pentecost has not been a “one-time” event.

2)  In the same way the ministry of Jesus himself displays development and growth from the time of his baptism at the Jordan, the ministry by apostles also may be seen displaying correction, enhancement, and refinement through Christ and the Holy Spirit.  An example of this is seen where Peter and a team of Jewish supporters violate standing tradition by entering the home of a Gentile in order to minister the Gospel.  This was something Jesus was ready to do, however,  did not do when asked to “only speak the word,” and command that a beloved servant be healed.  In the same way Jacob had to be encouraged and granted certainty through a sacred dream (angels on a ladder) that the GOD of his father could be his own divine protector also, Peter had to receive a dream that the outreach of divinity through Christ is to all the world, not merely to a single ethnic group and the existing covenant partners of GOD.

3)  Some denominations claim an historical and secular lineage to the authority, form, practice, and governmental structure that existed within the early church.  Particularly, several trace their origin to bishops, deacons, elders and evangelists who were scattered from Jerusalem during periods of persecution.  Others claim a doctrinal lineage based on principles and accounts written in Scripture.  Included are the falling of the Spirit at Pentecost on the 120 disciples from the Upper Room (that included the mother and brothers of Jesus), the anointing of believers through laying on of hands by Peter and John in what was once accounted as the heathen city of Samaria as well as in the private home of a Gentile who was a retired Roman soldier. 

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, 4) Conflicts, differences and diversity have always been embraced by the true body of believers in Jesus Christ acknowledging that the communion of flesh and spirit may only be established and become visible through the operations of divinity.  Within the body there are multiple levels of accountability, conviction, growth, maturity, readiness, and understanding.  Therefore, without also saying miracles, prayer, and proselytizing, many insist that the emblems to identify the true church of Jesus Christ must include acceptance of oneness without sameness among the persons of Deity, discernment (correct recognition and response to) spirit content from the makeup of GOD, faith, humility, receiving the blood and body of Jesus, sacred knowledge (e.g., awareness of divine law, prophecy, sacred promises), ministry that includes the poor, and the continuous preparation of believers to acknowledge Jesus Christ as their own Savior at his coming.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC