(05/17/2020) Believers Are To Forgive

With the photo see Matthew 5: 23-24, King James Version (KJV)

Today, reply is on forgiveness, reconciliation, and the loss of material and spiritual gifts. Where we endure times of boredom, depression, and loneliness, things of the flesh and material goods often lift our emotions and feelings such that we experience some forms of freedom, release, and relief. Even so, the deeper levels of our spirit remain unanswered and untouched. Young people and developing Christian believers are encouraged to acknowledge forgiveness as a sacred operation that continues human growth and relationship along with a connection as the children and offspring of GOD. Gifts from divinity that are provided as a fresh endowment of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD are intended to cleanse, heal, and nourish the image of GOD that should appear within created beings and living creatures on the earth. Mature Christians are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. It is written: James 1: 16-20, King James Version (KJV): 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

I used the "F word" at my dad after he destroyed my Hillsong Cd's and books....will Jesus ever forgive me?

Should I forgive my dad for destroying my Hillsong music CD's? [removed]

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2: 8-10, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); Divine Protection Against Covid-19? (04/26/2020); While We Are Growing (03/09/2020); Accountable For Spreading Disbelief? (02/02/2020); Pray For Your Enemies? (01/03/2020); The Many Divine Gifts (12/03/2019); Comfort Through New Life (08/22/2019)

“Anonymous”, Christians forgive knowing it is what GOD wants them to do. Along with our parents and others on the earth, forgiveness pertains to sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose and continuing an ongoing relationship with divinity. Young people and developing Christian believers are encouraged to understand that forgiveness can express compassion, maturity, sacrifice, unselfishness, and the mercy shown in final judgment against those found guilty of transgression. “Forgive and forget” does not restore or return conditions to what they once were, and forgiveness does not fully change another person’s character or nature that is sinful. Yet, as expressions of rebirth, redemption, and salvation, forgiveness makes possible the healthy continuation of any further relationship. Without forgiveness there can only be anger, bitterness, complaining, quarreling, and the bearing of a grudge. Properly understood, there is no man-made or material object that has more value than our spirit connection as family, friends, co-workers, and partners who, together, create and produce the products and tools that generate and maintain our lives. Where you received Hillsong as a welcome spiritual gift and a blessing from divinity, “the world did not give it, and the world can not take it away.” The sacred process and substance of music ministry is prophecy (i.e., comfort; edification; exhortation). Inseparable aspects of divine fullness are shared that include balance, faith, gratitude, hope, joy, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. It might take you a while, however, it is possible to replace the CDs with free and premium online music services such as Pandora and Spotify. It will not be possible to replace your father. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Ephesians 4: 25-32, King James Version (KJV): 25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. 29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

(2.) Matthew 6: 9-15, KJV: 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJ-iXt14nrg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 4:58 PM, May 17, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01BJXrQs7f_5C-OgwxQlsGIi_aKtA9f29Tp8lXqB3Ch9MYMauuqYbmmk668tZDAbZcuOap5U6HbDl6oFZ1N7ZOHn2EuWms6eBQ6QOwstLTR3D-ZOftBjpovi7sFYp3l6h-T4GMKHXpA00/w1200-h630-p-k-no-nu/1016871_468650233274429_8007967004198134101_n.jpg

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: In addition to anger and resentment, forms of unwillingness to forgive include betrayal, bitterness, distancing, forswearing promise, harboring a grudge, neglect, and unfaithfulness. As an act or expression of renewed trust, forgiveness must appear between parties in dispute for there to be a continuing relationship of mutual respect and shared purpose.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/23/2020) Divine Fullness Includes Wrath

A depiction of Revelation 15: 7, King James Version (KJV): 7 And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever.

Today, reply is on the existence of divine wrath against sin. Where mature Christians speak of divine anger, correction, destruction, and punishment there also is a full presentation on forgiveness, GOD’s love, and unselfish sacrifice through Jesus Christ. Wrath against sin appears as an inescapable and permanent aspect of divine purpose that proclaims both an inevitable fulfillment of sovereign will on behalf of full Creation, and a final elimination of sin. Those who correctly know GOD as their Creator and Maker also acknowledge that his wrath against sin that would otherwise destroy mankind has been leveled against Jesus Christ, the Son of the Highest, our mediator and High Priest. It is written: Romans 1: 18-22, King James Version (KJV): 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Why does God have wrath? He hardly qualifies as a god if he has such a strong urge to punish. It just shows that he is emotionally immature?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. (1^st Thessalonians 5: 8-10, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Sin Opposes All Existence (12/13/2019); The Sovereignty Of GOD (11/24/2019); Divine Anger at Harvest? (05/26/2019); Moses Was Not Divine (04/24/2019); Jesus Rebuked The Moneychangers? (05/16/2018); Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); Divine Wrath Against Sin? (10/17/2017)

“Anonymous”, the active presence whom we speak of as “GOD” is a spirit, and should be understood as a summation of all sacred substance (we also say, divine fullness; divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). In addition to inseparable aspects of process and substance that include accountability, commitment, faith, holiness, forbearance, righteousness and wisdom, divinity also displays balance, completeness, integrity, longsuffering, lovingkindness, mercy toward those found guilty in judgment, oneness without sameness, personhood, purpose, and wrath against sin. Divine rebuke and responses to suppress sin are required, for sin opposes the continued existence of sacred law, divine order, the Lawgiver, and the spheres of life that comprise the universe. Sin has not been put forth by divinity, and is no spirit substance; even so, the operations of sin may dominate awareness and self-will (willpower) within created beings and living creatures. Sin promotes nonexistence; ignorance of consequences and outcomes to outrageous behavior; and a return to conditions of chaos, confusion, and multiple streams in motion that contained neither content nor direction (we say, preexistence). Left unanswered by GOD, defiance, irreverence, lawlessness, rebellion, and wickedness would undermine all sacred authority. What mankind expresses as emotion and feeling derives from our makeup as creatures of flesh, rather than from our endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Sandi Patty:

(1.) Ephesians 5: 5-11, King James Version (KJV): 5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them. 8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: 9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) 10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.

(2.) James 1: 19-21, KJV: 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

(3.) Romans 13: 1-4, KJV: 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8clxOOe2tz4.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 8:08 AM, February 23, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5IwdFIR36NbaDATjFNW4ZcHCZmYB6bxu0_jOy-jstXl7KWbgJrlI20XD1zMzbg-0faXBE647ge8VzXeG7utn44MR8YtwRwvEZJLH7xiLaFYs6r21Gvpqt-s823aHMKFphtQyCrLeIltk/s1600/BOWL+JUDGMENTS.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/21/2020) TWO Kinds of People?

A depiction of final judgment where those who inherit the kingdom of GOD with Christ are sheep on the right hand, those denied are goats on the left.

Today, reply is on describing the character and nature of people on the earth as that of covenant believers and sinners, rather than that of builders or destroyers. It is written: Malachi 3: 13-18, King James Version (KJV): 13 Your words have been stout against me, saith the Lord. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? 14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts? 15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. 16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. 18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Luminous” (Level 2 with 595 points) posted the following:

Are there only TWO kinds of people?

Builders and Destroyers....People who bring out the best in you...or the worst.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest, And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more: (For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart: And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake:) But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel. See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire. (Hebrews 12: 18-29, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Judge Not The Appearance (01/12/2020); The Judgment For Rewards (01/10/2020); The Place to Start (12/23/2019); Counsels On Shunning Sinners (05/03/2019); On Diversity and Equality (05/22/2018); Destruction of the Adversary? (01/06/2017); Sheep of His Pasture (09/09/2016)

“Luminous”, here are some points I can share: The major distinctions mature Christian believers acknowledge among people are those presented in the holy writings. Black and white, Jew or non-Jew, rich and poor, educated and uneducated are less relevant, for the focus should be on the spirit makeup and substance one displays through their attitude, behavior, lifestyles and living relationships. Creation and the entire universe are to be shown respect as expressions of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Mankind is to make visible and present the same divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) on the earth that exists in the heaven. Humanity is to bear the image of GOD, and is to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. The operations of sin oppose the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and the earth as a sphere of life. While sin is no spirit object or substance put forth by divinity, sin may dominate awareness and self-will (willpower) within the living. Where Christians acknowledge the teaching that all have sinned, and must be recovered by operations of GOD through Jesus and the Holy Spirit, the distinction is made that there are 2 kinds of sinners: unrepentant and penitent. The perpetual covenant grounded in sacred law that was provided to benefit all mankind through the prophet Moses is not the same as the covenant of grace provided through Jesus as Savior and as the Son of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Sandi Patty:

(1.) John 3: 1-7, King James Version (KJV): 1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 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.

(2.) Matthew 12: 30-35, KJV: 30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. 31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. 32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come. 33 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. 34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. 35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

(3.) John 10: 10-12, KJV: 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.

(4.) Romans 4: 13-16, KJV: 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. 14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:  15 Because the law worketh wrath:  for where no law is, there is no transgression. 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,

(5.) Galatians 3: 13-28, KJV: 13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: 14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 15 Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man’s covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto. 16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. 18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise. 19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (7.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcC2x0go5R8.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 4:27 AM, February 21, 2020 @ www.mostholyfaith.com/images/Adam_to_Zion/SheepGoats.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

(02/09/2020) Getting Help From Church?

Today, the reply is on why the process for healing and help within the church founded by Jesus Christ often appears distant, impersonal, and unfeeling. Those who turn to GOD hoping to escape confusion, hardship, and pain, will be shaken to find that life as the new creation of Jesus Christ also is filled with challenge, encounters with error, and various forms of opposition. Sinners who approach the church having lives filled with anger, bitterness, fear, and uncertainty demand a personal response from members of the body; however, correctly understood, attention and focus for everyone must be on the example of Jesus Christ, and the unseen things of GOD that are being revealed. Rather than focus on his own comfort and prosperity, Jesus centered on the fulfillment of promise and prophecy; obedience to the spirit within sacred law and divine principle; eternal purpose; and the sovereign will of the Father. The needs for cleansing, nourishment, and new life are met more by our acceptance of duty, humility, and the demands we make of ourselves, than the demands we make of others. It is written: Philippians 2: 5-13, King James Version (KJV): 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality (no profile data appears) posted the following:

I thought Jesus healed the brokenhearted and mad men. You go to todays church for help and they just look at you like you're crazy.?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. (Psalms 34: 17-19, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Good Works Have Priority? (11/28/2019); Why Do They Sing? (11/14/2019); Taboo To Be “spiritual”? (10/07/2019); Divine Fruit From Suffering? (12/19/2018); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); GOD’s Way Not Equal? (07/17/2016); Can Someone Be Happy? (12/10/2013); Asked to Help? (12/11/2013)

“Anonymous”, every member of a church body usually is not instructed and prepared to address the broad range of life experience as mentors, parents, spouses, and professional therapists. More than this, genuine sacred healing requires divine process and spirit substance that may not be according to the frameworks of time and space. Here are some points to consider when reflecting on our experiences entering the church as a place of healing and safety apart from the world. Many become very disappointed, and even discouraged, because they are looking for solutions that are not truly aspects of the atonement, forgiveness, and reconciliation established by Christ:

(1.) The primary focus of the church has to be on redemption and salvation that are sacred works performed using fresh endowments of the Holy Spirit that are imparted from Jesus Christ to exist within the hearts and minds of sinners who seek new life through the Savior’s death, burial, and resurrection.

(2.) Sinners often approach divinity having a mix of emotional, financial, physical, psychological, and spiritual problems that can not be addressed by other persons like themselves. A new relationship with the Creator must be established wherein they receive substance from the makeup of GOD (for example, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, wrath against sin). Immortal, incorruptible, invisible GOD will use material, social, and visible tools that are on the earth to respond to such persons and their needs.

(3.) Developing believers are granted fellowship as members within assemblies and communities of faith; however, much of their development as new believers must be through self-directed operations to build up their own inner content as seen with commitment, discovery, gradual growth, learning, practice of sacraments (e.g., praise; prayer; unselfish service), private study of the holy writings, suffering, and heartfelt worship.

(4.) Those who become “born again” also must “grow up again;” and all are to become mature and ripe for harvesting from the earth by Jesus Christ at his appearing (we say, the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). The saved are to continue on the earth as vessels of divine substance, the offspring of GOD, and the new creation. As believers, they are to display the image of GOD, and are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, hear a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson: 5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5frx0hqWVqw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:26 AM, February 09, 2020 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/q7y6IDJVsMM/maxresdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/06/2020) Godliness Characterizes Authentic Humanity

Today, reply is on whether the Bible promotes slavery. GOD does not extend redemption and salvation to men on the basis of human accomplishments, economic and social status, ethnic origin or race. The Scriptures teach that mankind was created to exist as a companion to immortal, incorruptible, invisible divinity. Authentic humanity as put forth by the Creator is to display godliness, obedience, and the many inseparable aspects of divine fullness that were imparted as life essence. Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The holy writings have been provided to mankind on the earth even within cultures and nations where the enslavement of others were practiced as acceptable, commonplace, and necessary to maintain institutions for government, prosperity, geopolitical stability, and warfare along with management of ones own business, family, and household. Scripture provides a detailed picture of the human condition that has resulted through the operations of sin. GOD has not yet eliminated sin, and mankind is presently in a divine process of redemption and salvation wherein the living become the new creation. Through rebirth, repentance, and renewal, sinners are endowed to become mature and ripe for harvest by Jesus Christ at his appearing (i.e., the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). All are to endure life challenges on the earth generated by mechanical process, natural law, the Flesh, the World, and other belief systems. The broad range of living experience includes affliction, bereavement, chance occurrences, disappointments, discovery, duty, gradual growth, hardship, imprisonment, inequality, forms of servitude, poverty, sexuality, social injustice, suffering, and the unexpected. Sacred knowledge and divine tools have been given mankind that allow men more correctly to recognize, reject, resist, and recover from the operations of sin. It is written: 2^nd Timothy 1: 7-10, King James Version (KJV): 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; 9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, 10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

Does the Bible promote slavery?

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Visibility of GOD (01/20/2020); I Am So Satisfied (12/18/2019); Worshiping A Man-made Object (11/04/2019); Christ Displayed Authentic Humanity (10/09/2019); Was Creation A Failure? (05/13/2019); (08/22/2019) Comfort Through New Life; Continuing and Refreshing Creation (04/01/2019); Salvation Through Jesus Christ (03/25/2019)

“Anonymous”, mature Christian believers will agree that the holy writings describe the perfected human condition, the life process for the offspring of Adam that is acceptable to GOD, and the elements of mature, authentic humanity. These have been demonstrated through the appearance of divinity on the earth using flesh and the physical form of mankind (i.e., by the Incarnation as Jesus Christ.) The living descendants of the first pair are to display the image of GOD; and as believers and followers of Jesus, they are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Christ. The errors of ethnic arrogance, covetousness, dehumanization, exaggerated pride, racism, slavery, human trafficking, and violence against one another appear through the operations of sin that oppose the continued existence of sacred law, the Lawgiver, and the universe that is an expression of divine dominion, inarguable prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of divine fullness (i.e., the Creator; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit).

While divinity created the heaven and the earth, and has established mortality as a condition for human existence, a World system of belief has been created by mankind that is intended to ensure human communication, exchange, longevity, movement for populations, and survival. The World system operates relying on such finite tools as intellect, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, science, and technology. The Bible provides a record of divinity appearing on the earth through thousands of events, within thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years. The system of Christian belief provided by the Scriptures detail guidance, meanings, standards and values for the continued existence of mankind; promote the acknowledgment of divinity as an active presence; and continues the sacred transformation of mankind to become immortal and incorruptible through spiritual process and endowments of divine substance imparted from the makeup of GOD.

While mankind now must face life conditions on the earth that include aging, chance occurrences, disease, death, and uncertainty, divinity has provided mechanisms for godly living that alter, suppress, and in many instances reverse the operations of sin that appear as affliction, crisis, hardship, suffering, and tragedy. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and the music selection from the music ministry of the The Heralds:

(1.) Romans 8: 13-17, King James Version (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.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 7: 18-24, KJV: 18 Is any man called being circumcised? let him not become uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God. 20 Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. 21 Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. 22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant. 23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. 24 Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.

(3.) Colossians 3: 8-14, KJV: 8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: 11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. 12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

(4.) Colossians 3: 22-25, KJV: 22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye-service, as men-pleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God; 23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. 25 But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_UuIoxuLT8.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:11 AM, February 06, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/4c/5d/1d/4c5d1d0e5fa057e5bdc910cbdc042560.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/30/2020) Miracles and Christian Belief

The image depicts the Pharisees confronting the man born blind who was healed by Jesus on the Sabbath.

Today, reply is on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the imparting of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD as the primary divine tools that result in commitment and Christian belief, rather than the Lord’s ministry of miracles. Miracles, wonders, and peculiar events conforming to mechanical process and natural law were used by divinity as signs to indicate the divine origin and certainty of fulfillment for demonstrations, proclamations and oracles delivered by those serving as consecrated seers, prophets, and spokespersons. The life and ministry of Jesus on the earth were to actualize, fulfill and seal the many sacred promises, prophecies, and signs that appear in the holy writings. Included are admonitions, covenants, judgments, divine law, revelation, and visions. Carnal and secular knowledge, superstition, and the occult all are exposed as vain (i.e., void of divine substance). It is written: 1^st John 4: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shown) posted the following:

Jesus proved himself to be from God by performance of miracles. Those who saw believed in him.?

If in the future a man who claims to be another 'Son of God' performs proven miracles and says that he is the second 'son of God', would you believe in him?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 16: 13-17, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Tools Of Divinity (12/09/2019); A Complete Divine Revelation (11/15/2019); Acceptable Displays Of Faith (10/04/2019); Believing That GOD Is (06/24/2019); Where Be His Miracles? (05/07/2019); Why Spirit Displays Personhood (06/06/2018); Sabbath Acknowledges Divine Personhood? (05/14/2018); Called “The Anointed One” (05/08/2018)

“Anonymous”, among mature Christian believers, it is the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the imparting of the Holy Spirit to indwell his followers that establish Jesus as authentic, and truly sent by GOD. The church has been warned that in the last days deceivers will present counterfeit miracles. The church displays the image of GOD through those born again who resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. More than simply teaching the proclamations, principles, promises and prophecies from GOD, Jesus went about fulfilling the word. Also, Jesus was acknowledged and endorsed by those whom the people respected as living prophets of the day including both Simon and Anna, who for years appeared daily in the Temple at Jerusalem awaiting the appearance of Messiah, and John the Baptist who had served in the priesthood there. As an evangelist and traveling preacher, Jesus taught from the holy writings, cast out devils and unclean spirits (we say, performed exorcism), and healed multitudes of the sick appearing in the synagogues, and in open areas (e.g., the seashore, the mountains, the plains). He did not rely on the miracles he performed that included changing water to wine, calming the storm, providing abundant supplies of fish when the fishermen first took nothing in their nets, feeding the hungry crowds using the small offerings that had been shared (e.g., 5 loaves, 2 fish), and walking on the water. While the operations of Spirit substance from divinity that include faith may result in miracles, miracles do not always result in faith. Some will respond to miracles with appropriate awe and express gratitude toward GOD, however, many also become afraid, confused, skeptical, and unbelieving. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

(1.) Numbers 14: 20-23, King James Version (KJV): 20 And the LORD said, I have pardoned according to thy word: 21 But as truly as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the LORD. 22 Because all those men which have seen my glory, and my miracles, which I did in Egypt and in the wilderness, and have tempted me now these ten times, and have not hearkened to my voice; 23 Surely they shall not see the land which I sware unto their fathers, neither shall any of them that provoked me see it:

(2.) John 9: 15-18, KJV: 15 Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see. 16 Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them. 17 They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet. 18 But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight.

(3.) John 17: 17-23, KJV: 17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. 18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; 21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. 22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

(4.) Acts 17: 29-31, KJV: 29 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. 30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 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.

(5.) Revelation 13: 11-17, KJV: 11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. 12 And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 13 And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, 14 And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. 15 And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. 16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 17 And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (6.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_w1TekpF-AU.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 7:37 AM, January 30, 2020 @ https://media.freebibleimages.org/stories/FB_Jesus_Blind_Man_Pharisees/overview-thumbnails/014-jesus-blind-man-pharisees.jpg?1538657799

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/26/2020) Priests Keeping Their Jobs?

The fullness and perfection of GOD’s kingdom does not yet exist on the earth.

Today, reply is on priesthood, sexual abuse, and the process of sacred law within the kingdom of GOD. Since the fall of Adam, sexuality is an aspect of authentic humanity governed more by mechanical process and natural law than by the indwelling spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD as life essence. The justice of GOD as seen provided to the first pair is directed to preserving life, renewing creation, and making the universe secure. Those outside the church are cautioned to understand that the extraordinary goal and process for the body of Christ—to draw sinners into a saving relationship with divinity—requires sacred administration, authority, autonomy, continuity, creativity, discipline, and discretion. More than this, extremes of sacrifice, fulfillment of promise and prophecy, sharing, and unselfishness also must appear. For both heaven and earth, the operations of sin may dominate awareness and self-will (willpower) within created beings and living creatures. The mindset and mission of the church is to make divinity knowable, known, approachable, and accessible through the lifestyles and daily routines of its members. Anointed and ordained workers are provided to display and make visible inseparable aspects of divine fullness. Included are commitment, faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The operations of the church may not be compared or contrasted with those of the world as a belief system providing survival made up from secular organizations, governments, and codes of civil law. The church is to be acknowledged as a kingdom set apart, and the new creation of GOD. The church does not function without law, sacred principles, focused doctrine, and tested practices. The church has even appeared having its own courts, inquisitors, prisons, and punishments. It is written: Ezekiel 18: 20-23, King James Version (KJV): 20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. 21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. 23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Why have there been so many instances of Catholic priests being moved to other places (keeping their jobs) after sexually abusing children?

Do people in the Catholic church not believe that sexual abuse should be stopped or at least reported to the authorities?

Are Christian values more important to them than secular values?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: (Ephesians 3: 8-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Comfort Through New Life (08/22/2019); Responses To Clergy Scandals (03/28/2019); Challenges To The Church? (03/01/2019); Appetite and Human Sexuality? (10/19/2018); Thoughts on Sexual Relationships (03/07/2017); The Cross Condemns Fornication (05/20/2016); Scandal and Sin Among Believers? (06/05/2015)

“Anonymous”, for those not belonging to the church and the kingdom of GOD (misfits; outsiders), the issues of administration and government for others who are anointed and ordained as priests embrace many secular elements that foster and continue spiritual confusion. For many the church is a form of family that encourages and permits the same flexibility, intimacy, and respect as ones home. Invisible elements of guilt, purpose, and wrong-doing are not easily separated from those of the commitment by divinity to those vulnerable to sin, the provision of divine mercy for those found guilty in judgment, the continuous divine display of unconditional love, and the certain truth that divine righteousness will prevail. There are such unseen features as cause, consequence, effect, hope, and origin.

Priesthood is not an industry that provides its workers with a “job”, professional employment, or a guaranteed career. Through the priesthood things that are immaterial, invisible, yet, active and present are brought into clear focus. Priesthood is a form of servitude distinguished through such features as commitment; conformity to the image of GOD, and the life and ministry of Jesus Christ; humility; longsuffering; oneness without sameness; and personhood. Priests and all who follow Christ are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of their Redeemer and Savior. Even so, none on the earth are as yet perfected; and all must be understood as in a process of transformation that will be complete only at the appearing of the Lord to harvest those who are his from the earth (we say, the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming).

Men lose jobs everyday without also losing their homes, their spouse, their offspring, their ability to function and apply their needed skill in new settings and situations. Similarly, Christian believers err, fall short of divine standards, and transgress sacred law on a daily basis. Even so, the kingdom of GOD is not overturned and threatened, nor is the word of GOD made vain and bereft of power. There are provisions from GOD for cleansing, continuing grace, healing, recovery, and renewal. The process and substance of divinity has priority for those in priesthood, and makes it that the “letter” of the law must be applied and read with an awareness of the spirit conveyed by the law along with divine prerogatives, sacred precedents, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD.

Sexuality is a permanent aspect of human makeup attendant to the flesh in the same way hunger and thirst exist from birth to death. The expression and meaning of sexuality changes for us as we advance through stages of growth and maturity. The priesthood is an appearance of divinity using human flesh as in the Incarnation; and it would not be correct to deny priests freedom to express their authentic humanity on the basis of their connection to divinity. Attacks against the priesthood and those who serve Christ as apostles, clergy, prophets, and spokespersons also are to be dealt with among believers as attacks against the person of Christ. Often, such disguised attacks appear against the priesthood, against the grace of GOD, and against salvation for mankind. The element of sexuality alone is not enough when seeking to compose a “jury of our peers.” While fasting (feeding on the word of GOD) may be accomplished for as much as 40 days and 40 nights, appetite is not eliminated by imagination, reason and thought; it is suppressed and answered by operations of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. Within the church as a body, many priests receive chrism that replaces the sexual appetite; however, others must also endure the same challenges, conflicts, stresses, and tensions experienced among those to whom they minister (e.g., bankruptcy, divorce, drought, poverty). King David, King Solomon, and the Apostle Paul are acknowledged as important examples and instruments regarding divine instruction on human sexuality. Also, consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

(1.) 1^st John 1: 5-10, King James Version (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. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

(2.) Romans 8: 33-35, KJV: 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

(3.) Psalms 34: 22, KJV: 22 The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozsJSXJ3gWQ.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 5:55 PM, January 01/25/2020 @ https://phreshmanna.files.wordpress.com/2013/05/thy-kingdom-come.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC