(01/22/2021) So Help Me GOD!

 

The United States of America continues as a unified nation through the operations of faith appearing as commitment, integrity, and promise.  The following poem, America Is An Agreement, is shared in remembrance of Reverend, Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr., to express gratitude that America’s Constitution and process of government have been elevated and reinforced through checks and balances, and for our reflection on the Inauguration of our 46th President, Joseph Robinette Biden, Jr.  Nonviolence is not to be associated with cowardice, ignorance, fear, exaggerated pride, or racial inequality so much as with discipline, duty, godliness, maturity, mercy, respect, and self-control. It is written: 2^nd Corinthians 10: 3-5, King James Version (KJV): 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 1st Samuel 17: 44-46, King James Version (KJV): 44 And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. 45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: GOD Made The World (12/19/2020); Always Connected By Spirit (08/30/2020); The Visibility of GOD (01/20/2020); The Meaning Of “Persecution” (02/12/2020); Sword Of The Spirit (11/20/2019); Patriotic Songs To Worship? (11/10/2019); Spiritual Combat Against Sin (10/11/2019); Arrayed In Sacred Favor (02/25/2018)

Image downloaded 9:45 PM, January 21, 2021 @ https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2020/06/02/tennessee-national-guard-troops-lay-down-riot-shields-at-protesters-request/

AMERICA IS AN AGREEMENT

A poem for Citizen King Day, January 17, 2021

America is an agreement among people high and low

To share, to trust, to show respect, to build, to learn, to grow

To live as diverse cities, counties, territories, minds

Free people in a covenant that seals, demands, and binds

True sons of the 3-Branch Nation stand guard in the some-day State

Nonviolent demonstrators who display what makes us great

The Executive Branch the Judicial, the only active voice

The House without the Senate endorsed the People’s choice

The Capitol shrine of freedom had no war force posted there

It’s gates were open welcoming all those who would declare

This land a home of Liberty through Justice and through Law

Protected by democracy, humility, and awe

A winter chill confronts us now beneath the righteous dome

It’s winter in America, yet, this is our one home

We are still to strive for honor giving life to higher vision

Manifesting our integrity expressed in shared decision

No single man or woman rules despising common cause

Or overturns the mandate because they seek applause

For blind-justice will be roused in truth and armed to press the fight

A battleground appearing in the Citadel of Light

Our process must be one to focus what we will become

And not a game of placing blame to scourge the deaf and dumb

The conduct of a President should not incite complaint

Their balance fosters equity, forbearance, and restraint

Our errors need correction, and with every vote we cast

We come near the day where all may say, “USA is free at last, at last

Thank GOD Almighty, we are free at last.

We agree to be free, at last.”

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2021. All rights reserved.

(12/16/2018) Godly Exercise of Authority

Today, Scriptures are shared that provide counsels from divinity for leaders and rulers among the covenant people of GOD. While followers, citizens, and those under leadership often are most influenced and swayed by the character, charisma, and passion of those in authority, the correct administration and supervision of those in covenant relationship with GOD is to go forward through the indwelling Spirit from divinity endowed through baptism and rebirth (we say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Holy Spirit; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth). Sinners must be built up and edified in becoming Christ-like to display the image of GOD. Along with commitment and discernment, inseparable aspects of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD should appear at every level of organized activity and shared living. Included are faith, holiness, humility, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, righteousness, and wrath against sin. Thus, the holy writings record divine law and sacred wisdom commanded for those charged to serve over families, households, schools, law enforcement, health care, and other institutions as well as for cities, empires, kingdoms, and nations. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

What biblical passages describe the behavior of those who are in position of authority who tend to be taciturn and won't show you anything?

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Completeness, Integrity And Wholeness? (06/21/2018); Sacred Ministry or Parenting? (05/10/2018); A Descendent of David? (03/18/2018); Rulers Who Are Prophets? (01/25/2017); Called To Be Servants? (11/25/2015); Jesus As America’s President? (05/20/2015); Ruling With Christ? (02/12/2015); The Ruler Of the Earth? (05/01/2014); Parables About the Kingdom? (05/02/2014)

“Anonymous”, those who are called to lead and rule are to be anointed with spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that supplies them with necessary features and tools that include balance, completeness, gravity, impartiality, perspective, restraint, sobriety, wisdom, vision, and zeal. In addition to being held accountable for the completion of specific duties and tasks, leaders and rulers will direct and manage multiple projects and programs, and must serve as judges who resolve conflicts and settle disputes in accordance with policy, standard practices, and law. Consider again the following counsels using language from the Bible provided to guide leaders among the people of GOD:

1. Ecclesiastes 5: 2, King James Version (KJV): 2 Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.

2. Ecclesiastes 5: 8, KJV: 8 If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest regardeth; and there be higher than they.

3. Proverbs 10: 19, KJV: 19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.

4. Proverbs 16: 32, KJV: 32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

5. Ecclesiastes 8: 11, KJV: 11 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.

6. Proverbs 25: 28, KJV: 25 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

7. 1^st Timothy 3: 2-7, KJV: 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 8. Hosea 6: 6, KJV: 6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/15/2018) Sabbath Now and Then?

A depiction of David receiving shewbread from the High Priest.

Today, reply is on the spiritual meaning and value of keeping the ancient Sabbath laws recorded throughout the Bible.  The fighter using the ID "Violation Nation" (Level 5 with 8, 833 points; a member since November 08, 2014) in the "Yahoo! Answers" Religion and Spirituality forum posted the following:


Why can't atheists admit when God was telling us to stone people who work on the sabbath to death, he only meant in the past?

It was moral then and served His divine plan that doesn't mean we have to do it today but I gotta admit it really makes me angry to see people working all the same?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:  And by him all that believer are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.  (Acts 13:  38-39, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Did The Prophets Know? (05/23/2018); Sabbath Acknowledges Divine Personhood (05/14/2018); We Establish Covenant Relationship (05/01/2018); Being A Holy Nation (02/20/2018); Sacred Law and Practice (02/12/2018); Conditions Set By Covenant? (09/13/2017); Deeds Of The Law? (09/10/2017)


"Violation Nation", among the many Christian believers who realize the ancient promises and prophecies provided through Israel are continued through the revelation of Jesus Christ, the divine law speaking to the Sabbath is increasingly acknowledged as forward-looking, and a vital tool to correctly prepare men for the Second Coming of Jesus as the King of Glory.  The character and nature of divine fullness (we also say, the GODhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is not fully revealed focusing only on punishment and wrath against sin.  Included also must be completeness, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, mercy, personhood, righteousness, and wisdom.  Communication between the Creator and the created requires a peculiar vocabulary that embraces spiritual events and sacred substance.  Aspects of the sacred operations and eternal purposes of GOD may not be communicated without using the clear features of birth, death, existence, resurrection, and the second death.  

The sacred requirements for judgment make it that, among believers, accountability and duty extend beyond simple obedience.  The Ten Commandments (we also say, the Covenant) were provided to accomplish more than simply the transformation of twelve tribes and a mixed multitude (Gentiles) from Egypt into a divinely ruled sovereign nation by focusing on specific behaviors and conduct.  The Decalogue continues to clarify and crystallize the perpetual relationship between mankind and divinity that became corrupted through the disobedience of Adam.  Given the law is an expression of sacred intent and divine will, the law is to be embodied within conscience and self-will of the living as divine content and "life essence" (i.e., breath; spirit; word).  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Exodus 23:  10-12, King James Version (KJV):  10 And six years thou shalt sow thy land, and shalt gather in the fruits thereof:  11 But the seventh year thou shalt let it rest and lie still; that the poor of thy people may eat:  and what they leave the beasts of the field shall eat. In like manner thou shalt deal with thy vineyard, and with thy olive yard.  12 Six days thou shalt do thy work, and on the seventh day thou shalt rest:  that thine ox and thine ass may rest, and the son of thy handmaid, and the stranger, may be refreshed. 

(2.)  Isaiah 58:  13-14, KJV:  If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:  14 Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father:  for the mouth of the Lord Hath spoken it.

(3.)  Matthew 12:  1-8, KJV:  1 At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn and to eat.  2 But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day. 3 But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him;  4 How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests?  5 Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless?  6 But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple.  7 But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.  8 For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.

There is far more to be acknowledged and received as part of ones own spiritual fullness.  (For example (4.)  Luke 14:  1-6,KJV:  1 And it came to pass, as he went into the house of one of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on the sabbath day, that they watched him.  2 And, behold, there was a certain man before him which had the dropsy.  3 And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?  4 And they held their peace.  And he took him, and healed him, and let him go;  5 And answered them, saying, Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day?  6 And they could not answer him again to these things.)  Even so, to the rebuke of the Adversary and the furtherance of the faithful in Jesus Christ, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20180815113447AAYHUm9

(05/14/2018) Sabbath Acknowledges Divine Personhood?

Today, topics include benefits, punitive judgment, and divine purposes for the Sabbath.  Regarding Sabbath as a spiritual reality, Christians ought to embrace Sabbath-keeping as a work that ministers to mankind, because it first ministers to and serves divinity.  Exorcism, healing, miracles, preaching and prophecy pertain to divinity maintaining the Sabbath as holy.  Many of the keywords for speaking about the Sabbath as a benefit to mankind begin with the letter “R”:  for example, rebirth, reconciliation, refresh, regenerate, relationships, remember, renew, repair, repent, replenish, respect, restore, reveal.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “halo R” (Level 2 with 837 points, a member since January 10, 2009) posted the following in the Religion and Spirituality forum:


Question about the Bible?

"The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath"

We understand this passage as the Sabbath being a day that benefits the faith of Humankind.

If this is the case, then how is putting someone to death for breaking the sabbath benefitting an individuals faith? (the case of the man collecting sticks on the sabbath)


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:  Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father:  for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.  (Isaiah 58:  13-14, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Conditions Set By Covenant? (09/13/2017); A Divine Day Off? (02/15/2016); The 8th Day? (11/01/2015); Sabbath, Power, and Rest? (07/17/2015); Changing Times and Laws? (05/14/2014); Should Men Take Their Hats Off? (05/15/2014); To Keep It Holy (02/23/2014); 7 “Godly” Sins? (02/24/2014); About Sabbath (10/16/2013); We Shall Behold Him (10/17/2013); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013); The Obedience of Jesus? (04/15/2013)


“halo R”, here are come points to consider that you may find useful:

1.  Many mature Christians now understand the Sabbath Day as a temporal acknowledgement of divinity who exists as an eternal active presence (we say, breath, spirit, word) within the earth and throughout the universe.

2.  The origin of Sabbath is tied to the putting forth of heaven and earth, all existence, and all life (we say, Creation); and was not introduced through a body of law provided to establish the offspring of Adam (mankind) in covenant as a priestly and sacred nation under GOD.

3.  While the character, makeup, nature, and will of GOD are immutable, invisible and unchanging, divinity is to be knowable, known, accessible, and approachable by created beings and living creatures through revelation that includes discovery, gradual growth, Incarnation, praise, prayer, proclamation, prophecy, rebirth, suffering, and unselfish service.

4.  Correctly understood, the Sabbath is a sacred and eternal event—spoken of using the frameworks of time and space as though Sabbath is a discrete, past, one-time occurrence—wherein the fullness of divine personhood (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) proclaims divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign authority that manifest as divine order.

5.  In continuing the divine operations as centered in rest, divinity also affirms, examines, and assigns value (we say, conducts tribunal; performs judgment) of all that has been established and made.

6.  Where believers endorse ordinances and statutes (i.e., laws) that command and regulate Sabbath-keeping they must be careful not to overly invest in and restore the letter of the ancient calendars and laws that require they acknowledge, where a single point of the law is transgressed, the whole law is broken.  More correct, Christians are to invest in the fulfillment of the law by Jesus Christ, and performing the spirit (righteousness) of the law.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, 7.  The first pair (Adam and Eve) shared in the Sabbath observance as life companions to divinity, not as fallen creatures in need of reconciliation and recovery.  That celebration is to be unending.  Even so, the things of Creation requiring fulfillment and further work are sought out and identified, revealing the Creator as a GOD of judgment, numberless possibilities, and fixed progressions.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/01/2018) We Establish Covenant Relationship

Today, points are shared on faith, divine law, and covenant relationship with divinity through Spirit.  The apostles and disciples of Jesus Christ initially understood their work as one of declaring and demonstrating the fulfillment of promises and prophecies received as their inheritance through the covenants of GOD with the Jews.  Eventually, all were guided by the Holy Spirit to center on proclaiming new provisions and the new creation covenant through the atoning blood and testament of Jesus Christ.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:



Christians/JW/Mormons/RC/SDA: when Paul said we "establish the Law" what did he mean?

Update: Folks, it's not hard, Paul who many Christians claim supported the establishment of God's 10 Commandments said the Apostles were ESTABLISHING the Law. What's your take on that Scripture please?
Update 2: GTower, yes, but you've actually not answered the question's premise, which is that the Law of God, His 10 Commandments, aren't abolished.
Update 3: Paul, true, so go find it and make an informed opinion, it's in Romans.



THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.  And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.  For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise:  but God gave it to Abraham by promise.  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.  Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.  Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid:  for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.  But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.  But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.  (Galatians 3:  16-23, King James Version, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); Whoso Keepeth His Word (03/09/2018); Sacred Law and Practice (02/12/2018); Secular History, Sacred Revelation? (01/11/2018); Deeds Of The Law? (09/10/2017); Continuing A Perpetual Covenant (08/03/2017); Operations of Christian Faith (04/28/2017)



“Anonymous”, here are some points on faith, divine law, and Spirit that mature Christians have found useful to avoid spiritual confusion.  By being “born again“” and receiving a fresh endowment of life essence (breath, spirit, word) from the makeup of GOD that includes faith, we are established in covenant relationship with GOD:

1.  The word “law” has multiple applications and meanings throughout the holy writings and does not always refer to the Ten Commandments (we also say, the Decalogue) that were spoken by GOD himself to proclaim divine authority through  covenant relationship with mankind using the Hebrew tribes and Gentiles who traveled from Egypt with Moses.

2.  The law declared at Sinai continued the ongoing revelation by the invisible Creator to the created beings and living creatures of the earth that is provided to make divinity knowable, known, accessible, and approachable.  This law also was given to transform a collection of nomadic tribes into a sovereign state, and addressed the regular communication, exchange, interaction, and lifestyle required among men for living together as a godly community.

3.  The covenant relationship (also called “the law”; the covenant of Moses; the Mosaic covenant) for GOD and Israel is to be understood as permanent, stable, and unchanging.  Israel pleaded that GOD employ chastisement, correction, punishment, and even death to enforce the agreement, and to freely express divine disfavor and wrath against sin, yet, never annul or cancel the sacred accord.

4.  Israel developed its own culture, institutions, political process, and social practices for expansion, trade, and survival.  When Israel again became subject within global empires (like that of Egypt) that legislated co-existence with idol-worshiping and heathen peoples, efforts by those within the Nation generated pressure to demystify “the law and the prophets,” and replace sacred knowledge with secular knowledge.  Doctrine became centered on declaring and enforcing the law in a way that did not also acknowledge that GOD is a spirit whom we must worship in spirit and truth. 

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, 5.  Repeatedly, the argument that the perpetual covenant may only be maintained by strict obedience to the letter of the law granted through Moses has been made in ways that deny operations of faith and righteousness also fulfill the intent and purpose of the law, and ensure continuing, correct relationship with the Lawgiver.  Interpretations that speak to the indwelling of divine spirit rather than flesh open the qualifications for covenant relationship as also being for those who are not Hebrews, and are not of Israel as a nation.  Also, because spirit endowments from divinity contain inseparable substances from the makeup of GOD, wherever faith and righteousness appear aspects of Deity also will be active and present such as forbearance, forgiveness, gratitude, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/27/2017) Gossip and Malicious Silence?

Today, reply is on the duty of believers through and with the law to help one another discern, recognize and resist error and sin.  Believers do not “snitch” or become betrayers and traitors by carefully helping each other identify error and sin.  Often, behavior that seems harmless and innocent to ourselves can be very damaging to others; and our mistakes will not be detected and correctly valued until seen through the light of divine law.  Also, when someone has been hurt or offended by another, and does not hold their attacker openly accountable, the result can be a dangerous and explosive build up of anxiety, bitterness, fear, suspicion, and uncertainty.  The provisions from GOD to expose the operations of sin have included sacred law; family; friendship; covenant nation; the Incarnation of divinity as Jesus Christ; the Savior’s death on the cross, resurrection and ascension; and the provision of fellowship for believers within the body of Christ (the church).  In an effort to avoid appearing to be unnecessarily judgmental and overly critical of others, many Christian believers “ignore” and behave as if they are blind to insulting attitudes and conduct from fellow believers that are disrespectful and offensive.  Obeying a rule from the World (live and let live), yet committing a serious error, many believers will make no complaint against what are clearly transgressions of sacred law.  Exaggerated pride influences the living to believe there is no need for law from GOD, and that they may be a “law unto themselves.”  In part the law has been given because the operations of sin can appear to be natural and normal as though they are the truest expression of ones own character and makeup.  Sinners do not discern the actual nature of sin, and that sin is contrary to their own continued existence.  By contrast, developing believers will increasingly agree that to maintain divine order and godliness we also require the vocal support and vigilance of others who are sharing in the new creation.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE” (Level 1 with 40 points, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:


For those "PROCLAIMING" Christianity, What Does Leviticus 19:17 Mean?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Owe no man any thing, but to love one another:  for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.  For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  Love worketh no ill to his neighbour:  therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.  (Romans 13:  8-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Deeds Of The Law? (09/10/2017); The Operations of Sin (07/25/2017); Obstacles To Developing Believers (07/24/2017); Christian Beliefs About Sin (07/20/2017); Fellowship With the Father (06/13/2017); A Fool of the Church? (01/26/2016); A Slip of the Tongue (09/17/2014); Which Things We Speak (09/18/2014)


“GRANNY NORINE”, gossip, grudge-bearing, and malicious silence are forbidden among those who are the new creation through Jesus Christ.  Formal statements recording the law from GOD appear throughout the holy writings.  In addition to exposing error, sin, and their consequences, the work of the law is to make the heart and mind of divinity knowable, known, and “present”.  Commandments, judgments (rulings to settle disputes), ordinances (required ceremonies and observances), prohibitions, and statutes are shared to amplify, “bring to life,” and detail the practices and principles provided to Adam and the Patriarchs as a divine inheritance.  Along with the words spoken by GOD at Mount Sinai, the written law would be developed and proclaimed as a living and organic aspect of communication, exchange, and  interaction within and between the tribes of Jacob as they were being transformed and permanently bound together as a single nation in covenant with GOD. 

For those who are mature, the expression of love always includes the acceptance of accountability.  Within the shared covenant, believers have standing as “brothers”, “neighbors” and “partners” (not siblings).  The rule [Leviticus 19:  17, King James Version (KJV):  17 Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart:  thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.] forbids being critical of others (their attitudes, behavior and conduct), yet, not answering directly to them to make them aware of their offenses against yourself, or their  transgressions against GOD and the divine law.  It is more an act of love to deliver admonition, caution, chastisement and warning, than to maintain a silence that may fester and become a “root of bitterness,” or that falsely will appear as approval and agreement.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 14:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 Ye are the children of the LORD your God:  ye shall not cut yourselves, nor make any baldness between your eyes for the dead.  2 For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.  3 Thou shalt not eat any abominable thing.

(2.)  Proverbs 30:  11-14, KJV:  11 There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.  12 There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.  13 There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up.  14 There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.

(3.)  Jeremiah 6:  13-15, KJV:  13 For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.  14 They have healed also the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace.  15 Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush:  therefore they shall fall among them that fall:  at the time that I visit them they shall be cast down, saith the LORD.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Matthew 18:  15-17, KJV:  15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone:  if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.  16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.  17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church:  but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/21/2016) The Cross and The Pharisees?

Points are shared, today, on how the ministry of Jesus added to and built upon that of the Pharisees.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Jonathan” (Level 1 with 1 point, a member since January 16, 2014) posted the following:

Why are some Christians very legalistic? Didn't Christ warn them not to be like pharisees?

If Jesus told them that they were forgiven already and that God loves everyone how come they don't extend that love to gay people. I thought Christ didn't want them to be legalistic.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.  But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)  Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)  But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart:  that is, the word of faith, which we preach;  That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.  For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.  For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.  (Romans 10:  5-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Sadducees and The Cross? (03/13/2016); Believing In The Cross? (03/04/2016); Religious Liberty Not Authority? (09/07/2015); Sight to the Blind? (07/30/2015); The Law is Not Grievous (06/26/2015); Jesus and the Pharisees (07/14/2013); How Could Angels Fall? (07/15/2013); Double Standard? (10/12/2012); Family and Romance (10/13/2012); Blessings, Curses and Woes (10/03/2012); After We Die? (10/04/2012)

“Jonathan”, seeking to escape the law, many fail to receive the guidance, protection and structure that only comes by the law.  Trusting that answers are continuing to flow to us across time and space through operations of the Holy Spirit, blood and truth from the cross are reaching to here and now.  The living ministry of Jesus that was dramatically completed upon the cross brought into view the many essential dimensions that were missing from the work of those upholding the covenant of Moses.  Included were compassion, empathy, sacred events (we say, miracles), faith, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, and godly wisdom.  The Savior demonstrated and provided on a daily basis expressions of divine love that included feeding the hungry, forgiving the guilty, fulfilling prophecy, healing the sick, imparting spirit substance, and proclaiming the eternal inheritance.  The Pharisees represented a tried and trusted system that had been provided by GOD as a divine gift, and that also had anchored the people through difficult tests and trials that included captivity, disgrace, domination by heathens, exile, and poverty.  The law had indisputable benefit, and was a shield against calamity, confusion, sin, and the many forces (e.g., disbelief, ignorance, politics, exaggerated pride) that threatened to end covenant with divinity.  Therefore, the law was not to be abandoned, cast away, or responded to with defiance,  indifference, pride, and slackness.  As a necessary framework for pleasing the Father, acknowledgment and respect to law and judgment continue to be indispensable for all the children of GOD through Jesus Christ.  Such blessings as comfort, forgiveness, rebirth, and sanctification that establish Christian believers as a “new creation” are in no way intended to annul or eliminate divine law.  Jesus did not oppose the Pharisees because of their willingness to study and promote the holy writings, their objectives (we say, aims, “end”, or goals) to re-establish the dignity of their nation, or their efforts to have all things done “decently and order” within the synagogue and Temple.  The Savior was critical of “going through the motions,” hypocrisy, indecision, presumption, pretense, and vanity (lack of divine substance).  Consider again how these ideas are shared using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Matthew 23:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,  2 Saying The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat:  3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works:  for they say, and do not.

(2.)  Romans 10:  1-4, KJV:  1 Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.  2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.  3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.  4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

(3.)  Romans 3:  1-3, KJV:  1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision?  2 Much every way:  chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.  3 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?

There is far more to be said, understood, and spiritually taken in.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 3:  20-26, KJV:  20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight:  for by the law is the knowledge of sin.  21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;  22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe:  for there is no difference:  23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;  24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:  25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;  26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness:  that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/29/2014) Divine Law for Mankind?

Divine law and murder come into view, again, along with more on mystery and judgment.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 5 with 7,422 points, a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:


How do you understand the ten commandments? 

How do you understand the commandment no other gods?
 
no idols?
 
or do not murder?
 
for example - I think that being rude to somebody is a mild form of murder
 
Also disrespecting somebody or looking down on somebody - not taking somebody's feelings into consideration is also a type of murder


THE BATTLE AXE:  No Mystery in Lawful Judgment (07/28/2014)— (5.)  The nature and person of divinity revealed through revelation is balanced, free of contradiction, immortal, immutable, stable, and unchanging.  Consequently, the revealed intent and operations of GOD may be understood as fixed, flawless, irreplaceable, perfected, and permanent.  There is no question that divine law is direct, focused and specific; nor should there be any issue that divine judgment applying sacred law is impartial, simple, and straight forward.  At first, approaching the things of GOD in the ignorance and limitations appropriate to beings who are anchored in the operations of their own flesh (i.e., appetite, sensation, emotion/mental functioning), all believers regard the things from GOD as dark, intimidating, shrouded in mystery, and uncertain.  Through baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth having the same divine content that is the makeup of GOD) believers are endowed with such aspects of divinity as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  What once was baffling, inexplicable, perplexing and unfathomable is shown to be the very divine gifts that will end all suffering, eliminate corruption, and maintain eternal life.  See Deuteronomy 29:  29, Malachi 3:  1-18 and Ephesians 3:  1-12, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,  Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, I am the LORD your God.  After the doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do:  and after the doings of the land of Canaan, whither I bring you, shall ye not do:  neither shall ye walk in their ordinances.  Ye shall do my judgments, and keep mine ordinances, to walk therein:  I am the LORD your God.  Ye shall therefore keep my statutes, and my judgments:  which if a man do, he shall live in them:  I am the LORD.  (Leviticus 18:  1-5, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  On Christians Executing Judgment (06/06/2014); Stoning in the OT? (06/07/2014); Suffering Circumcision? (06/08/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); The Bible is Unchanging? (03/23/2014); Deferring Judgment? (03/07/2014); To Live As a Sacrifice (03/08/2014); Bible Justice? (01/26/2014); GOD Inhabits Praise (01/27/2014); Lawful Revenge? (01/02/2014); As GOD Loves Us? (01/03/2014)


“Breakthrough”, here are a few points based on teachings in Scripture that should nourish our Spirit as we continue to learn and grow:

(1.)  The Decalogue is different “by letter,” however, its function and purpose is the same (we say, by spirit) as the prohibition declared to the first male and female (Adam).  What was spoken by GOD (later written), described specific conditions for the continued existence of their kind within correct relationship to GOD, and to one another.  More than simply a restraint upon appetite, sensation, and emotion/mental functioning, the law was to uphold awareness of divine presence, intimate relationship, respect, and trust.

(2.)  Because the Decalogue was intended to transform the nomadic tribes of Jacob into a priestly nation serving and worshiping the true GOD, the law appears to center upon human actions, behaviors, conduct, and works.  However, the sacred law was also a device for the revelation of divinity.  Through the law, mankind was further equipped to operate having discernment—the ability whereby created beings and living creatures apply their own spirit content to recognize and respond to spirit matter encountered in their life experiences such as events, messages, objects, other persons, prophecy, purposes, and the holy writings.

(3.)  Because the law makes visible what we often call clean and unclean, good and bad, life and death, right from wrong, true and false, the law also comes into view as the protective hedge, and shield we call “divine love.”  In addition to Deuteronomy 6, the epistle 1st John are two of the best sources displaying the unity of law and love as well as the commandment that believers love one another.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  The law also has been given as a tool to detect and resist sin.  All sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, of the Law Giver, and of the divine order for the universe established through divine law.  However, the limitations upon divine law (we say, the curse of the law) include that law does not eliminate or remove sin.  Death may punish and get rid of a sinner, however, the  consequences of their sin may continue indefinitely and long after the sinner is gone.  Thus, the law must be buttressed and reinforced with a broad range of sacred operations such as atonement, baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth having divine content), confession, forgiveness, Incarnation, repentance, resurrection, and sanctification.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/04/2013) The Return in Glory?

Whether Christ will appear in flesh at the Advent or Second Coming is topic, today, with more on divine forgiveness and judgment.  In remembrance of America’s birthday, I again recommend the music ministry of Deitrick Haddon & Voices of Unity; readers should hear the MP3, One Nation available with the August 1999 album Chain Breaker.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “harmonia” (Level 1 with 29 points, since June 17, 2013) has posted the following:


Do you think Jesus will return in spirit or flesh?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Theoretical Forgiveness? (07/03/2013)—It may appear that divine judgment and forgiveness casually dismiss cruel and hateful sins as if they never happened.  However, many subtle (i.e., barely visible) differences must be weighed in divine judgment that go beyond the specifics of ones behavior and conduct.  Judgment to establish eternal being and permanence must occur within multiple aspects of unseen truth.  In addition to the social, there is the emotional, the psychological, and the spiritual.  Such carnal and material features as whether ones actions immediately resulted in another’s death; the number of fatalities; the age, gender and soundness of ones victims; how recently ones offenses have been committed are all secondary to their agreement and fulfillment of divine proclamation, promise and prophecy.  Life process is examined to identify the outworking of divine endowments, the continual acknowledgment of sacred presence, and the accomplishment of eternal purpose.  See Job 8:  11-15, Romans 11:  33-36 and Revelation 15:  2-4, KJV.


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.  And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.  But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.  Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.  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.  For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.  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.  The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:  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.  (Romans 8:  5-17, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  When Jesus Comes Back (04/19/2013); What’s The Way Out? (04/20/2013); Suddenly Absent, Suddenly Present (03/31/2013); A Family Affair? (04/01/2013); Before Abraham Was… (03/14/2013); Titles and Respect (03/15/2013); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Jesus, King of Earth? (10/07/2012); A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); Aliens? (09/24/2012)


“harmonia”, here are some points important for those who acknowledge Jesus Christ as their redeemer and savior:

(1)  The operations of GOD to fulfill divine promise and prophecy are also intended to alter mankind, to end mortality, and to preserve eternal divinity.  The make-up and substance of GOD is such spirit matter as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Even so, GOD has ability, authority and power to generate carnal, material and physical being.

(2)  GOD is revealed to Creation as Godhead through multiple sacred operations that express exalted being, purpose, sanctity, and sovereign will.  Included are Creation, the present ongoing judgment, and the appearance of GOD in human flesh as Jesus Christ (we say, Incarnation). 

(3)  Almighty GOD is unchanging, and employs differences, diversity and variety as tools that establish meaning and value for created beings and living creatures, who must rely upon patterns that continually shift within fixed frameworks of time and space.  The ministry of Jesus Christ to establish eternal life is accomplished by a permanent joining of flesh and spirit.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example,  (4)  The return of Jesus will be in glory and in power.  In addition to proclaiming promises and prophecies from GOD to encourage hope upon the earth, Jesus suffered the cross to demonstrate that death and resurrection will allow a transformation whereby mankind may become immortal and incorruptible.)   Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC