(06/10/2020) Law And The Prophets

The image is from a frieze depicting the Law and the Prophets with Moses, Elijah and Joshua by John Singer Sargent

Today, reply is on “the law and the prophets” as described in the Scriptures. Through Adam and his sons who served as Patriarchs, a priesthood appeared that made atonement on the earth modeled after that in the heaven. The regular use of judges who would resolve conflicts and settle disputes by applying the law, and the ongoing use of prophets for admonition, guidance, and warning both would be established as part of the perpetual covenant of Israel began through Moses. It is written: Matthew 5: 11-20, King James Version (KJV): 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. 13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. 14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “andrew” (Level 1 with 100 points) posted the following:

how prophets are described ?

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why Is Passover Important? (03/01/2020); The Place to Start (12/23/2019); A Death Penalty Necessary? (11/27/2019); Moses Appearing Having Glory (11/25/2019); Prophets After Jesus Christ? (06/04/2019); How GOD Speaks Today (12/10/2018); The Priesthood of Adam (11/02/2018)

“andrew”, for many believers today, “the law” means the Torah, the Covenant of Moses, or the Ten Commandments; issues of correction, discipline, living routines, and punishment are foremost. While, “the prophets” mean the major and minor servants of GOD identified as messengers and spokespersons in the Old Testament writings. For Christian believers, “the law and the prophets” can be understood as the two earliest streams of divine revelation to mankind whereby divinity was made knowable, known, accessible, and approachable. The life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; utterance; word) imparted to Adam from the makeup of GOD included inseparable content from the divine fullness such as balance, consciousness, integrity, personhood, self-will, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The endowment of spirit from GOD is what Christians also call the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth. Transgression of the sacred law by the male and female pair disrupted divine order throughout the universe, for the divine law and its sanctions are immutable. Mankind became subject to imperatives within the law that require an utter destruction of sin that we speak of as the second death. Mankind presently is in a season of grace wherein, rather than interventions that display authority, dominion, and power to force and impose divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD, graphic and memorable displays of the character and nature of divinity (we say, the image of GOD) are being made that will allow mankind to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Those who become born-again also must grow-up again, and become mature and ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing. As vessels of divine DNA so to speak, the sons and daughters of GOD who are joint-heirs with Jesus are to develop through discovery, gradual growth, sacred practice, prophecy, unselfish service, study of the holy writings, and suffering. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

(1.) Exodus 20: 18-21, King James Version (KJV): 18 And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off. 19 And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die. 20 And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not. 21 And the people stood afar off, and Moses drew near unto the thick darkness where God was.

(2.) John 4: 23-24, KJV: 23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

(3.) James 5: 9-11, KJV: 9 Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. 10 Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. 11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

(4.) Revelation 22: 8-10, KJV: 8 And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. 9 Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellow-servant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. 10 And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E91OE5u1wA.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:40 AM, June 10, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMh8JxOFozc1Npx2SIXaDrzF9AQL_SuwVZyLM2Voxl7Iy4Y4AU3W6tELkUMWv0n7NwKHCxXi8QRGei0pU4Vi-hW19zfkiFrenG5d5U9nXlS8HmJbezTCsPHfbztPfii03NSIxQ_k70ONI/s1600/Central+panel+of+Frieze+of+Prophets+-+Moses+with+the+Tablets+of+Law%252C+fanked+by+Elijah+and+Joshua.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/22/2019) Kings, Popes, Priests, Prophets?

The image depicts Christ calling those who would to serve as apostles, his first disciples, laborers for the harvest and fishers of men.

Today, reply is to a fighter who compares forms of government and spiritual leadership on the earth. Properly understood, apostles, bishops, deacons, and pastors (shepherds) preside as officers over faith communities and congregations. The present plan of divinity is that mankind exist as a kingdom where all will communicate and operate as offspring of GOD. Saints and those joined to GOD share a fresh endowment of spirit content imparted from the makeup of divinity (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth). Even many developing Christian believers err when comparing priests—who are officially anointed and ordained to offer sacrifices on a holy table (altar) where heaven and earth are joined—against prophets—who are appointed as spokespersons sent by GOD. Where GOD once provided patriarchs, elders, and judges (deliverers), operations of the flesh and of sin resulted in the establishment of temporal authorities that included chiefs, emperors, governors, monarchs, pharaohs, and Caesars. Through Jesus Christ, mankind has received commandments, examples, and principles for conduct and relationship that serve as civil and sacred law from GOD. The church founded by Jesus is to be an eternal, sacred body; even so, many become entangled within institutions and organizations that use the name of Christ, yet, do not transform men to be Christ-like. In Christ, the dominion, ownership, and sovereignty of divine fullness has appeared and been made manifest on the earth using human form (we say, Incarnation). While the character, process and substance of GOD are entirely from spirit that is invisible and without form, divinity (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) are to be acknowledged as presenting personhood, eternal purpose, and sovereign will. Inseparable aspects of divinity include faith, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. It is written: 1^st Samuel 12: 14-19, King James Version (KJV): 14 If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue following the LORD your God: 15 But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as it was against your fathers. 16 Now therefore stand and see this great thing, which the LORD will do before your eyes. 17 Is it not wheat harvest to day? I will call unto the LORD, and he shall send thunder and rain; that ye may perceive and see that your wickedness is great, which ye have done in the sight of the LORD, in asking you a king. 18 So Samuel called unto the Lord; and the LORD sent thunder and rain that day: and all the people greatly feared the LORD and Samuel. 19 And all the people said unto Samuel, Pray for thy servants unto the LORD thy God, that we die not: for we have added unto all our sins this evil, to ask us a king. “Anonymous” in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality (no profile information shared) posted the following:

So Is the Queen/King of England like the protestant equivalent to the pope? I'm not impressed, spiritual leaders should be priests.?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all. (John 18: 36-38, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Conflict Among Multiple Wills? (09/20/2019); Why Jesus Comes Back (06/20/2019); Peace Or A Sword? (01/29/2019); Called “The Anointed One” (05/08/2018); Benefits of His Kingdom? (04/11/2017); First Seeking the Kingdom (03/03/2017); How Many Apostles? (04/30/2014); The Ruler Of the Earth? (05/01/2014); Succession (02/05/2014); On Youth Doing Enough (02/06/2014)

“Anonymous”, GOD is using multiple relationships to make divinity knowable, known, accessible, and approachable by created beings and living creatures. Monarchs and Popes rule over two forms/levels of community defined using carnal, physical, and social concepts. Divinity has used many different figures to guide and instruct those on the earth; and while there has been hierarchy, ranks, and other distinctions, competition and conflict have rarely been expressions of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Among mature Christian believers, the holy writings also present the revelation of mankind’s growth and development while being restored from the effects of sin, and while undergoing a transformation to exist permanently as companions to divinity, who continue to relate to those on the earth as an invisible spirit in form and substance. Multiple devices and mechanisms have been used by divinity to communicate, exchange, and interact with created beings and living creatures. Included are oral history, priesthood, seers, and living tradition through Adam and the Patriarchs, who each lived for nearly 1,000 years. Continuity and relationship with the living that are uninterrupted by death have been maintained through such devices as family, inheritance, tribes, dynasty, empires, immutable unchanging truth, and nations as well as institutions and organizations chartered and sanctioned through civil and sacred law. Also the active presence we speak of as “GOD” has been acknowledged through birth, death, forgiveness, rebirth, healing, Incarnation, preaching, proclamation, promise, prophecy, resurrection, unselfish service, and suffering. That divinity has appeared on the earth using human form does not cancel divine ownership of the heaven and earth. Jesus Christ should be acknowledged as the highest and most complete embodiment of divine authority, dominion, and power over the earth. The anointing upon Jesus has been that of Chief Architect of the Holy City (New Jerusalem); High Priest; King; Sanctified Servant; Sacred Judge; Prophet; and the Firstborn from The Dead. Through the ministries of Jesus on the earth and from the heaven, developing and mature Christians are to exist as the new creation. As offspring of the Most High and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, all are to display the image of the Father, and the same life essence (breath; spirit; word) that was imparted to Adam from the makeup of divinity. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. Ephesians 4: 4-7, King James Version (KJV): 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all 7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

2. Ephesians 4: 10-15, KJV: 10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

3. 1^st Corinthians 12: 27-31, KJV: 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

4. 1^st Timothy 5: 17-18, KJV: 17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, 5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5G8dZTWwvmU). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: Offices appear within the Catholic church as an institution that did not exist within the early church appearing in Scripture. Included are abbots, cardinals, confessors, monseigneur, and Pope. Before his conversion on the road to Damascus, Saul of Tarsus (later known as the Apostle Paul) filled a role as an executioner and an inquisitor who persecuted the early church on behalf of the Temple leaders at Jerusalem. Correctly understood, the authority of the Pope as infallible is the same as the dispensation granted Moses that allowed decision-making in judgment that could be authoritative and final unless a direct intervention by GOD would be required. The monarchs who have ruled over England, Great Britain and related territories have held the secular title of king, queen, emperor, and empress. A continuing argument has been made that succession for nobility and royalty are by dispensation of GOD and “divine right.” Also, the same laws of the realm for inheritance that govern the transfer of ordinary estates, goods, and property are cited as the true covenant declaring their benefits and privileges as well. The ruling monarch is regarded by many to be the temporal head of the Church of England. In the same way the Pope is head over the Vatican as an independent nation and sovereign state, and his authority is exceeded only by Jesus Christ, many hold the ruler of England is a chief officer of the church on the earth whose authority is only exceeded by Jesus Christ. Even so, many are cautioned to grasp that a house divided against itself can not stand. Given the multiple conflicts that arise because sacred and secular truth are often in opposition, these institutions appear built on sand, rather than the solid rock. Matthew 7: 24-27, King James Version (KJV): 24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

Image downloaded 7:49 AM, September 22, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/04/75/7b/04757b2dd02d0a0684e833bdb3001d64--fishers-of-men-jesus-calling.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/16/2019) "Sneak Previews" Of Heaven

Today, reply is on the “sneak preview” divinity has provided through the holy writings that makes heaven known and approachable to those on the earth. The character of hope among Christians is very similar to that for divine law, and is presented and preserved through the Scriptures. Hope is the expectation believers are commanded to maintain as the focus of their awareness and self-will; and, like sacred law, divine promise, and prophecy yet unfulfilled, hope expresses the eternal purpose and sovereign will of divine fullness. It is written: Romans 15: 4, King James Version (KJV): 4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

If God really wants people to become Christians, shouldn't he offer them a sneak preview of heaven?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. (Revelation 22: 1-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Heaven Speaks Using Mankind (09/15/2019); No Wall of Partition (07/05/2019); Spiritual Confusion About Heaven (05/31/2019); Divine Preparations for Advent (03/17/2019); According To The Pattern (09/27/2018); Mankind’s Priesthood in Heaven (02/16/2018); Material Things in Heaven? (11/10/2016); GOD Appearing in Dreams? (05/03/2015)

“Anonymous”, divinity already has provided a “sneak preview” of heaven through the holy writings that provide a record of divinity using thousands of events, within thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years. Without guidance and spirit matter provided from GOD, sacred events (miracles) cause anxiety, fear, and spiritual confusion, not commitment, faith, and sacred expectation (i.e., hope). As we see with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, because of the process and substance of spirit, only those chosen and prepared through operations of GOD are granted the privilege to be aware and responsive to certain levels of sacred truth. Developing and mature Christian believers accept that the Scriptures are a primary tool for their consciousness and experience of divine truth; and that multiple operations and procedures are being used by divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) to make the celestial sphere of sacred presence knowable, approachable, and “visible”. In addition to testimonies and eyewitness reports of their own actual experiences, the holy writings contain accounts of dreams, prophetic proclamations, and visions provided by GOD to communicate with the living on the earth. Included are reports from the Patriarchs such as Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and the Prophet Daniel as well as accounts from the apostles of Jesus Christ. The Incarnation of divinity using human form was to prepare mankind to exist as a vessel of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. Sinners who turn to GOD through the ministry of Jesus Christ receive a fresh endowment of the same life essence (breath; spirit; word) received by Adam at Creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Genesis 28: 10-14, King James Version (KJV): 10 And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. 11 And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep. 12 And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it. 13 And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; 14 And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.

2. Genesis 28: 16-18, KJV: 16 And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not. 17 And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven. 18 And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it.

3. Isaiah 6: 1-10, KJV: 1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. 2 Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. 3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. 4 And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts. 6 Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar: 7 And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged. 8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me. 9 And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. 10 Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the words of Jesus answering Nicodemus, an elder from the Temple at Jerusalem, who came to him by night to avoid being condemned as a follower of Jesus: 4. John 3: 11-12, KJV: 11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded at 9:59 PM, September 15, 2019 @ https://searchisaiah.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/seraphim-with-a-live-coal-in-his-hand.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/10/2019) To Be Jesus' Sheep

Today, reply is on those who are the flock and sheep of Jesus Christ. The many multitudes that have received atonement, forgiveness, and reconciliation to divinity through the ministries of Jesus Christ include those in covenant with GOD from the days of Adam, the Patriarchs, the tribes of Jacob in Canaan, and the developing believers of the present age. As members of his body and his fruit from many cultures, languages, places and times, those who will be the harvest of Christ at his appearing will display great diversity as well as oneness without sameness. All these will come together for sacred service and worship within the holy city, the New Jerusalem. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

What does it mean to be Jesus' sheep?

Matthew 25:35-46 has Jesus telling Christians to feed his sheep.

Who are Jesus' sheep?

Are Jesus' sheep those who are loyal to Jesus and his God Jehovah?

Are Jesus' sheep those who do not know Jesus or Jehovah?

Who and what are Christian's supposed to feed?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; 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. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 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. (John 17: 16-23, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: According To Divine Purpose (06/09/2019); On Diversity and Equality (05/22/2018); From Glory to Glory (11/14/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); My Sheep Hear My Voice (11/16/2016); Sheep of His Pasture (09/09/2016); The Sheep Who Lost Their Way? (11/18/2014); Restoring The Lost? (11/19/2014)

“Anonymous”, in the same way Jacob maintained the flocks of Laban, his father in-law, and had to develop his own separate flock, Christian believers understand that divinity appeared Incarnate on the earth as Jesus Christ (the Son) to gather and maintain the scattered flocks of the Father in heaven, and has developed his own separate flocks through sacred works of atonement, spiritual adoption, inheritance, rebirth, and new creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Ezekiel 34: 11-17, King James Version (KJV): 11 For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. 13 And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country. 14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. 15 I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD. 16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. 17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.

2. Ezekiel 34: 26-31, KJV: 26 And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing. 27 And the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall know that I am the LORD, when I have broken the bands of their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them. 28 And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid. 29 And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of the heathen any more. 30 Thus shall they know that I the LORD their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord GOD. 31 And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord GOD.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. 1^st Peter 5: 2-4, KJV: 2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/29/2019) Fasting, Prayer and Sanctification

Today, reply is on the sacred practices of prayer and fasting. Fasting, offerings, pledges, prayers, and sacrifices were relied on by the early patriarchs and seers when requesting or seeking spiritual deliverance, sacred events (we say, miracles), and visions from divinity. Also, anointing, changing ones garments, fasting, isolation, meditation, and prayer were used by believers to show themselves sanctified and set apart for divine service. The priesthood begun with Adam as the performance of divine ceremony and memorial on the earth would become continued as an inheritance to mankind appearing through obedience to divine law, ministry, prophecy (i.e., comfort, edification, exhortation), and unselfish service. For Christian believers, the process and substance of ones lifestyle and regular practice are to be spirit in their character, makeup, origin, and outcome, rather than merely a peculiar expression of appetite, self-discipline, willpower, or other workings of the flesh. While all Christians are welcome to drink the blood and eat the body of Jesus using the emblems of bread and wine, the Lord’s Supper (we also say, Communion) pertains to abstaining from or partaking of manna and food from heaven, and centers on becoming Christlike by receiving a fresh endowment of life essence from the makeup of GOD. Our words are heard through the Son of GOD. Christians are to acknowledge the life of Jesus Christ—that includes his fasting for 40 days and 40 nights along with his cries, prayers and works performed before and from the cross—to now be their own achievement that continually pleads for atonement and reconciliation with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 6 with 15,509 points, a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:

Jesus talks about fasting and prayer - but how is fasting different from prayer if fasting involves more than just not eating food?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. (John 6: 27-35, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Will You Lose Family? (01/20/2019); Sanctify Yourselves for Tomorrow (05/07/2017); GOD’s Peculiar People (12/11/2016); His Children Are Sanctified (10/12/2016); GOD’s Way Not Equal? (07/17/2016); Getting It Right About Angels (05/10/2015); Anointed? (04/28/2014); No More “Mr. Nice Guy”? (04/29/2014); About Sabbath (10/16/2013); We Shall Behold Him (10/17/2013)

“Breakthrough”, at one time it was understood that prayer and fasting together were required to receive a vision from GOD. In Christian belief mankind must acknowledge dependence upon spirit process and substance, rather than things carnal, material, and social. Prayer and fasting appear to be paired throughout the Scriptures as two major aspects of private devotion and supplication. While the two sacred practices demonstrate commitment, determination, and perseverance, the two also display humility, meekness, memorial, and acceptance of divine chastening. Once GOD has made an answer, divinity does not “change his mind,” or repent. The final decisions in judgment, the proclamations, and the promises of GOD are immutable and unchanging. Divinity can not be influenced or manipulated by the gifts, offerings, and sacrifices of those on the earth; and the two sacred practices are more correctly understood as aspects of active ministry, priesthood, and spiritual deliverance. Through unselfish service that appear as prayer and fasting Christian believers may accomplish confession, intercession, restraint of appetite, and thanksgiving on behalf of the entire church body. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Deuteronomy 8: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers. 2 And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no. 3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. 4 Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years. 5 Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee. 6 Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him.

2. Daniel 9: 1-5, KJV: 1 In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, which was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans; 2 In the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem. 3 And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes: 4 And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments; 5 We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments:

3. Matthew 4: 1-4, KJV: 1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

4. Romans 8: 26-27, KJV: 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Isaiah 58: 5-7, KJV: 5 Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? 6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? 7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: The Prophet Jonah was dispatched to a city of the Gentiles, Nineveh of Assyria, to require fasting and prayer be made by the entire kingdom. There, completing the sacred practices were announced as a condition for deliverance from mandatory judgment events that would mean their extinction. Even the animals were to acknowledge the sovereign will of GOD, appease divine wrath against sin, and demonstrate obedience, repentance, and respect. It is written: Jonah 3: 6-8, King James Version (KJV): 6 For word came unto the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, and he laid his robe from him, and covered him with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. 7 And he caused it to be proclaimed and published through Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles, saying, Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste any thing: let them not feed, nor drink water: 8 But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily unto God: yea, let them turn every one from his evil way, and from the violence that is in their hands.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/30/2018) Divinity Embodied In Flesh

A depiction to describe the Spirit of peace with GOD that must indwell created beings and living creatures

Today, while many of us are continuing to celebrate the nativity of Jesus Christ, reply is on the appearance of divinity through both Creation and the birth of Jesus as Redeemer and Savior. The genealogy of Jesus, and the Patriarchs who came forth having the inheritance and priesthood of Adam come into view once again as we respond to a fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum using the ID “Faez” (Level 1 with 135 points, a member since September 10, 2018) who posted the following:

Who is more superior? Jesus, who was born without a father, or Adam, who had neither father nor mother ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor, Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala, Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech, Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan, Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God. (Luke 3: 34-38, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Increase of Christ? 12/07/2018; The Priesthood of Adam (11/02/2018); John Anointed To Prophesy (05/21/2018); Firstborn Of Every Creature (05/09/2018); Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); The Divinity of “Word” (01/26/2018); The Lamb of GOD (08/19/2015); Both Born Holy? (04/29/2013); Scripture at Funerals? (04/30/2013)

“Faez”, among mature Christian believers, where birth of a living child is to be understood as a sacred event (we also say, miracle) there must be (1) acknowledgment of divine authority, dominion, ownership of all that exists, and the operations of sovereign will; (2) there must be a clear fulfillment of eternal purpose that has been proclaimed and prophesied as an element of full divine revelation; and (3) there must be the realization that divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is diffuse active presence who can not be completely and correctly spoken of using the frameworks of carnal reason, logic, material objects, social relationships, time, and space. While Adam was fashioned from preexisting matter (i.e., soil from the earth) his life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) was imparted from the makeup of divinity. So to speak, it was this divine DNA, that made Adam a “living soul,” and allows him to be accounted as the first “offspring” of GOD. Because of the operations of sin, the children of Adam can not receive an inheritance of that first spirit endowment from GOD without multiple divine interventions and sacred events that include the appearance of the Word in flesh as Jesus Christ (we say, Incarnation). In the same way, mankind is to acknowledge through faith that the Creation has been accomplished through divine persons, process and substance, the birth of Jesus through a virgin is a matter of sacred knowledge, not secular knowledge, politics, science, or technology. Christian believers are to agree that divinity now is transforming mankind through operations of imparted, indwelling Spirit to exist as immortal and incorruptible. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. By his ministry in the earth and from the heaven, Jesus has provided the new creation whereby the living may receive the sacred inheritance restored. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Luke 1: 35-37, King James Version (KJV): 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. 36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.

2. Hebrews 1: 1-6, KJV: 1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: 4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. 5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? 6 And again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.

3. Acts 1: 4-9, KJV: 4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. 6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. 9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Romans 8: 5-9, KJV: 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/20/2012) The Spirit is Willing

      Vigilance against sin is the topic, today, along with more on why there was warfare against Canaan. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Jamaica” (Level 1 with 28 points, a member since September 25, 2012) posted the following:


What do they mean when they say 'the soul is willing but the flesh is weak'?

The Bible often uses a figure of speech to describe the outcome of things and certain events that went on in the past and are going on right now. So what does it mean when they say your 'soul is willing but' your 'flesh is weak'? Please answer me that.


THE BATTLE AXE: Why Did the Judges Fight? (10/19/2012)—Many of those who left Egypt with Moses were proud, selfish and unspiritual. To them, the conflict to gain the promised land was purely a human struggle for property and wealth that depended solely upon desire, desperation and fear. Telling their story is not the purpose of Scripture. Rightly understood, the holy writings focus entirely upon the workings of Almighty GOD upon the earth, through mankind. During the 40 years that GOD lead the covenant people through undeveloped areas and uninhabited wasteland, GOD destroyed every man who had left Egypt, pledged themselves in covenant, and then disobeyed and rebelled. Only Joshua and Caleb, two who were sent to explore the land as spies, and the offspring of those who left Egypt actually set foot in, and established their own homes within the promised land. Even Moses was denied. Later, many of the tribes made treaties and agreed to receive tribute from the enemies of GOD. They did not completely expel those who had broken covenant from the land as they had been commanded. As a result GOD allowed his enemies to continue as the enemies of Israel both surrounding and within the borders of their homeland (see, for example, Joshua 15: 63, Joshua 17: 12-13, Joshua 22: 13 and Judges 1: 21-33, KJV).


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. (Matthew 26: 40-42, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Spirit by Measure (09/22/2012); A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); Binder 15: Even From Everlasting (10/12/2011); Will in Heaven? (03/03/2011); Jephthah’s Oath? (03/04/2011)


      Here are some ideas Christ has been willing to share among his followers:

      During the night before Jesus was arrested and crucified, he cautioned the apostles to be prayerful and vigilant at all times. They were to stay alert, and recognize when they were being lead into peculiar situations that would challenge, and test the depth of their commitment and understanding. Until the falling of the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD, the primary tool given to mankind to make sin known and visible had been various forms of divine law. Law was “given a human face” through mechanisms that included the priesthood by heads of families (Patriarchs such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac), the covenant of Moses, the system of judges (captains over 10’s, 20’s, 50’s, 100’s, 1000’s), and a line of kings. Jesus Christ provided in the flesh a perfect and complete presentation of the righteousness and sacred spirit that are conveyed to mankind through the divine law.

      Sin was first discovered among the holy angels. However, sin is not a spirit-being, is not spirit matter, and does not operate upon living spirit. Sin is not a carnal, material, or physical thing; and sin has no dimension (e.g., height, length, shape, size, weight) or substance (e.g., matter, particles, stuff, etc.). Nevertheless sin has direction, effect, and presence. We could say, “sin is nothing”; yet, contrary to intelligence, logic, and reason, sin may dominate the will of created beings and living creatures. Sin is not created by GOD, or by the living. Sin does not obey divine will; neither is the will of GOD subject to sin. Sin opposes the existence of GOD, of divine Creation, of divine law, of eternal life, and of all that is. Apart from awareness generated from GOD, created beings and living creatures cannot detect sin as foreign and separate from ones own being; and repeatedly obedience to sin is embraced as natural and normal.

      In their creation, the holy angels were supplied with the total measure of authority, knowledge and spirit that they could receive throughout their continuance. (The angels are neither mortal nor immortal, and complete their existence only by immersion in holy fire.) In the creation of humans, divine spirit was imparted as a “breath of life.” While the holy angels do not acquire knowledge by experience as humans (i.e., learn and grow), they can be influenced by one another, and by mankind. Through Jesus Christ, provision has been made that mankind may receive additional deposits of Spirit that enable discernment of, and resistance to sin.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the flesh dominates human awareness as appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, craving for sex), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching) and mind (e.g., desire, fantasy, imagination). As events that operate in time, the elements of flesh “come and go.” Thus, the weakness of the flesh includes exhaustion, immaturity, instability, malnutrition, and mortality.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC