(09/13/2020) GOD Can Forgive Us

Today, reply is on divine and human forgiveness. GOD can forgive mankind for the transgression of divine law, for when required to fulfill the sovereign will of divinity, nothing is impossible with GOD. In the same way, tabernacle and temple priests did not cure those with leprosy, yet, were to acknowledge and discern the workings of GOD to declare a leper fit to return to the congregation, men may serve GOD by confirming that other men are forgiven for the transgression of divine law and again are fit as members of the worship community. As seen through Jesus Christ, expressions of divine forgiveness may appear only when carried out by those consecrated and ordained as an agent and embodiment of divinity with privilege to manifest divine authority and power. Where sin is divinely forgiven, multiple sacred operations also appear that may include atonement, birth, death, sacrifice, the imparting of spirit substance from the full makeup of divinity, reconciliation, justification, sanctification, and the second death. Through Jesus Christ the living now may operate as the new creation, and at the coming of Jesus are to become gathered with those raised from the dead who will receive eternal life. It is written: 2^nd Corinthians 5: 17-19, King James Version (KJV): 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Luigi Shadow” (Level 3 with 1,820 points) posted the following:

Do you agree that if God can forgive us for our sins we should forgive others for their sins too?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow-servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow-servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow-servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow-servant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses. (Matthew 18: 23-35, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Character Must Appear (08/13/2020); Forgiveness is not DIY (07/22/2020); Divine Forgiveness Ministers Grace (07/20/2020); The Outcomes Of Judgment (06/28/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); Forgiveness A Sacred Practice (05/28/2020); Believers Are To Forgive (05/17/2020)

“Luigi Shadow”, GOD can forgive, and it is only by the operations and substance of GOD becoming alive within mankind that men are able to forgive. Where mankind exercises forgiveness among themselves it is consistent with the operations of humanity to express the character, image, and nature of divinity that was imparted from GOD to Adam as life essence (we say, breath; spirit; utterance; word). Those living on the earth as vessels of divine fullness are carnal and material expressions of sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Forgiveness is not the outcome of judgment so much as an outcome of grace; and forgiveness does not provide or replace atonement, confession, and repentance. Forgiveness reveals the active presence of such inseparable aspects of the divine makeup as balance, commitment, completeness, forbearance, lovingkindness, mercy, personhood, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The response to forgiveness is to be change and correction, rather than punishment. Instead of a demand for legality and strictness of discipline, there is a requirement for faithfulness and perseverance. Forgiveness is to signal a revival of covenant relationship and the continuation of spiritual development and growth. All divinity (i.e., the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) participates in the process of sacred judgment that is ongoing and eternal through the existence and life of GOD. Because transgression of divine law is also the violation of all divine order, the removal of sacred spirit from Creation, and the introduction of imbalance throughout the universe, death (that first appeared as a tool when establishing Adam as both male and female yet one) becomes a divine tool along with delay of judgment, for permitting mankind salvation through discovery, gradual growth, rebirth, and sanctification. The sanction of death declared in the law of GOD becomes elimination through the second death, because through Jesus Christ divinity now allows resurrection from the dead. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and the selection from the music ministry of Dallas Holm:

(1.) 2^nd Peter 3: 9-15, King James Version (KJV); 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

(2.) Romans 8: 1-9, KJV: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

(3.) Revelation 2: 10-11, KJV: 10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. 11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

(4.) Revelation 20: 6, KJV: 6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4IzsF5F1xrI.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:55, PM September 12, 2020 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/l1pf2vksCWs/hqdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/31/2017) Knowing What To Believe?

Today, reply is to a young person on the knowledge from GOD for becoming full believers.  All Christian believers should have correct information on the importance, meaning, and value of divinity appearing on earth Incarnate, Jesus Christ dying on the cross, his resurrection, and the sacred promise of his return and soon-coming.  Knowing that is certainty, having confidence, and being sure come by faith and trust toward GOD more than by experience, practice and study.  Spiritual growth is opposed by many influences and forces, such that becoming a mature Christian believer can be spoken of as “a good fight of faith.”  In addition to ignorance, sin and wickedness, developing believers must persevere against appetite, distractions, shifts in mood, self-centeredness, and exaggerated pride.  A new writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Katy” (Level 1 with 80 points, a member since December 30, 2017) posted the following:

 
I'm catholic and dont know what to belive?

I was raised a catholic going to church and CCD. now I am unsure i still believe in god and Jesus. Wouldn't they had said something if they did exist? (Not saying they don't) And can Pope Francis talk to them? Can priests talk to them? I am also supposed to be receiving conformation soon. I don't know what to do.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Consider the lilies how they grow:  they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.  If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?  And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.  For all these things do the nations of the world seek after:  and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.  But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.  Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.  (Luke 12:  27-32, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Most Important Thing? (12/28/2017); Starting A New Life? (11/21/2017); Standing On The ABCs? (11/09/2017); Undergoing A Sacred Transformation (10/24/2017); Discernment, Focus and Meekness? (07/07/2017); Inheritance Must Become Commitment (05/15/2017); Growing Up Again? (12/09/2015); Understanding Spiritual Growth? (03/13/2015)

“Katy”, being a Christian is more a matter of consistently and regularly displaying content imparted from the makeup of GOD (who is spirit), than a matter of having finite human beliefs, intellect, logic, secular knowledge in place of sacred knowledge, carnal reason, or science.  Nobody “knows it all,” and, thankfully, it is not required that we be “all-knowing.”  The process of divinity for the salvation of mankind is one that brings together multiple streams of truth, and employs such elements as becoming mature, gradual growth, discovery, learning, observing sacred practices (we say, sacraments, for example, baptism, confession, praise, prayer), risk-taking, sacrifice, and unselfish service to others.  Being “born again” and becoming a full person (growing up again) as a follower of Jesus Christ is not a “one-time” event.  Church attendance and fellowship within the community of believers is vital, for Sin that opposes the continued existence of divine law, and “the World” system have great power to influence our consciousness and self-will when we are alone.

Just as Christian belief defines and puts forth specific spiritual meanings for right/wrong, good/bad, falsehood/truth, or what is possible/what is actual, other systems exist for emotional, mental, and social survival that counterfeit, oppose and undermine Christian standards and values.  The operations of sin may dominate awareness, desire, and ones willpower.  With this in view, growth for a sinner who turns to Jesus Christ (we say, repents) is often spoken of as a “good fight of faith.”  GOD supplies developing believers with inseparable aspects of his own character and makeup such as balance, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, personhood, restraint, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Believers are to become ripe for harvest by continuing the image of GOD on the earth through their lifestyle and daily routine.  At his appearing (some say, the Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming) all who belong to Christ will meet him in the air; their judgment and transformation to exist as his immortal, incorruptible companions will be completed as they come out of their graves and are lifted up with the living.  Belonging to Christ is not a matter of being coerced or subjected to violence.  Yet, becoming “perfected” is very much a matter of commitment, discernment (i.e, using ones own spirit content from GOD to acknowledge the divine spirit as it resides in events, other persons, prophecy, the holy writings, etc.) and surrender (allowing the Holy Spirit to make permanent changes within you).

Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Matthew 13:  18-23, King James Version (KJV):  18 Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.  19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.  20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;  21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while:  for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.  22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.  23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.

(2.)  John 3:  1-10, KJV:  1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:  2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God:  for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.  3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.  4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.  8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth:  so is every one that is born of the Spirit.  9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?  10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?

(3.)  Habakkuk 2:  2-4, KJV:  2 And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.  3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie:  though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.  4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him:  but the just shall live by his faith.

There is far more to 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.

Washington, DC

(09/29/2017) Rebirth, Growth and Transformation

Today, reply is on reconciliation and salvation as divine operations that go forth in stages.  There must be a complete transformation of a sinner’s spirit content from GOD before they acquire the full strength of will to eliminate sin in the life.  Believers are to make every honest effort they can; endure suffering and occasional uncertainty; and persevere on the basis of faith, nourishment and trust that have been provided through proclamations, promises, and utterances from GOD, more than on the basis of events in the carnal, material, and social arenas.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “PopPrincezz014” (Level 1 with 5 points, a member since July 03, 2009) posted the following:


God loved us while we were sinners, so god loves us now as we believe?

My thing is I'm human and tho I try not to sin I do sin, I know some of my sins aren't what god would want me to do but that doesn't mean he leaves me? Right? I believe but sometimes I give in to other things? God understands right? It's eating at me


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.  For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.  (Romans 5:  8-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Our Glory From GOD (09/24/2017); Obstacles To Developing Believers (07/24/2017); Meekness, Mortality and Salvation? (07/13/2017); Discernment, Focus and Meekness? (07/07/2017); Transformation Not Obedience Alone (07/02/2017); Conforming to Divine Standards (06/18/2017); Testing and Divine Process (06/12/2017); The Process of Forgiveness? (10/21/2015)


“PopPrincezz014”, be encouraged!  Believers must endure an intense process of re-creation and renewal (as with the removal of a rib from Adam to make the woman) that is anchored in divine utterance (praise, prayer, proclamations, promises, prophecy, etc.).  Salvation is not a “one-time” event in the life of a sinner.  Becoming a mature believer in the things of GOD through Jesus Christ is done only through multiple stages of gradual change, growth and learning.  There must be a separation from secular knowledge and life experience organized by the frameworks of time and space.  This shift is so great that believers say, You must be born again!  Through the sacred operations of baptism, there are the death and burial of ones inborn spirit, its resurrection, and their re-emergence having divine DNA, so to speak.

In place of the familiar things of flesh (e.g., appetite, senses, emotion/mental functions) and the material world, one must install sacred knowledge centered upon divine spirit.  Every believer must receive a fresh endowment of “life essence” (breath, spirit, word) from the makeup of divinity.  Included are such inseparable aspects of Deity as faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Those who are “born again” also must “grow up again” and become ripe for harvest (i.e., balanced, complete, sober, stable).  Those who are mature will be taken from the earth by going to meet the Lord in the air (we say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  Their transformation (perfection) that has been ongoing from before the founding of heaven and earth will be completed in the “twinkling of an eye.”

While the salvation of mankind and the earth have required the Incarnation of divinity (GOD using flesh to appear among the living); the death of Jesus on the cross, his resurrection, and ascension as well as the imparting of gifts and operations by the Holy Spirit, sin is still not totally eliminated.  The operations of sin oppose the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the entire universe.  Sin does not exist as a physical object that may be destroyed; yet, sin displays direction, effect, and presence; and sin may dominate awareness and self-will (willpower) in created beings and living creatures.  The finite human tools (e.g., emotion, intellect, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, and science) are not enough to correctly recognize, reject and resist sin.  Through Christ, sinners may receive fresh deposits of the divine will that are not subject to sin.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  1st Peter 1:  13-23, King James Version (KJV):  13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;  14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:  15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;  16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.  17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:  18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;  19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:  20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,  21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.  22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:  23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

(2.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  17-19, KJV:  17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.  18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;  19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  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

(09/15/2017) Driving Away the Enemy?

Today reply is on GOD allowing the wicked to have authority over saved persons.  Properly understood, the process of salvation is one wherein divinity enables a sinner to remain free from the wicked forever.  Sin has not been eliminated from the earth, yet, sinners can be permanently changed through rebirth, and equipped to recognize, reject, and resist sin.  Believers gradually achieve maturity and the full spiritual blessing of eternal life after completing mortality, enduring hardship and suffering, and overcoming challenges, persecution, and loss.  One of the fighters using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

What when God allow the wicked act over a saved person?


Without reaction.I though that saved persons would have the power to make the wicked go away.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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;  Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.  And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.  Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility:  for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:  Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.  (1st Peter 5:  2-7, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Sacred Baptism, Divine Resurrection? (09/14/2017); Fear, Revelation and Desire (05/22/2017); Herein Is True Love (10/21/2016); A Note On Spirit Warfare (01/06/2016); Forgiving Enemies a Condition for Salvation? (05/11/2015); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)


“Anonymous”, the process of receiving salvation among  Christian believers is one of discovering sacred knowledge and things from GOD, experiencing gradual growth, maintaining focus on the character and makeup of Jesus, and putting to work all that you learn.  The devil, sinners, and the wickedness found in the world will go away for a while, and seek to come back when a believer seems confused, double-minded, and open to attack.  For this reason, believers are taught to think of their new life in Jesus Christ as a “fight of faith” and spiritual warfare where we must stay alert, where we may become injured or wounded, and where we even may lose our natural lives.

Believers must rely on the authority and power of divinity to drive away and limit the influence of evil, yet, must cooperate with GOD by their own commitment to Christ in what they say and do, in their discipline and self-government, and in their not giving up (we say, perseverance).  As sinners who become “born again,” developing believers also must “grow up again” and become ripe (mature) for harvesting by the Lord at his coming (we say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  In addition to inseparable aspects of spirit content from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, wrath against sin), the mature believer will display such features as balance, completeness, humility, divine purpose, sobriety, and stability.

Given GOD is on their side, Christian believers can not lose.  Even so, in the same way every soldier in an army might not have the same duty, knowledge, rank, skills, and weapons as others who are on the same side as he, there is great diversity among Christians.  We do not all have the same knowledge of the holy writings, the same level of spiritual maturity, and the same personal strength.  Believers, therefore, come together as a church and community of faith to share comfort, communication, encouragement and support.  Believers are to provide one another whatever the other may lack.  Thus, in our battles against lying, lust, sin, and ungodliness, it is right that we turn to each other as the Lord’s people for help, protection, and victory.  Believers are not indestructible, yet, having the promises of GOD, we become fearless and unbeatable.  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)   James 4:  4-10, King James Version (KJV):  4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.  5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?  6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.  7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.  9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep:  let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.  10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

(2.)  1st Peter 5:  8-9, KJV:  8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:  9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

(3.)  Revelation 2:  10, KJV:  10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days:  be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Timothy 6:  12-16, KJV:  12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.  13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;  14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:  15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;  16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see:  to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.)  I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.



THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/06/2017) Salvation Takes A Lifetime

Today, grace, salvation, and the divine process for spiritual growth are topics.  Eternal life always begins as a single moment during the mortal existence of a sinner.  Even so, the sinner only receives the full measure of blessing, gifts, and new life from GOD by continued humility, perseverance, and willingness to allow GOD to make permanent changes in what and who they are.  Those who leave the household of faith do so on the basis of their own choices and desires, not as a matter of divine rejection, or a lack of divine love.  With this in view, redemption and salvation are not one-time events; rather, they are movements and shifts within the core of ones makeup that require acknowledgment through multiple choices and decisions over the course of ones entire lifetime.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers (India)” using the ID “annabellwagner14” (Level 1 with 92 points, a member since March 21, 2017) posted the following:


Being saved?

When I was younger my teacher (In church, I'm Baptist) had me saved. But I didn't know that was what hapoened. So when I was older I got saved again. (I know that's not how it works though, you can only be saved once). So is that bad? Does it mean wrong for me? Is there a way to fix that if there is a problem? Thank you in advance!  (I haven't been to church in some time, I'm still looking for once since I moved)


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  It is a faithful saying:  For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:  If we suffer, we shall also reign with him:  if we deny him, he also will deny us:  If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful:  he cannot deny himself.  (2nd Timothy 2:  11-14, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Time and Sacred Events? (03/30/2017); The Quality of Life? (03/29/2017); ...Because GOD Loves You (03/05/2017); Becoming A Full Person (02/12/2017); Acorns Become Oak Trees? (02/09/2017); Plantings of the Lord (02/10/2017); As Newborn Babes.... (10/13/2016); Why Are Works Required? (07/18/2016)


“annabellwagner14”, being saved takes a lifetime, and it is a sin to despair or quit seeking our salvation.  Many mature believers agree that “being saved” is not a one-time event for a sinner in the sense that salvation is a process of change, growth, and learning that often requires new choices and more-informed decisions.  A sinner must be “born again” through water baptism (death and burial of ones inborn spirit accompanied by resurrection having divine DNA, so to speak), and gradually come into full relationship as the children (i.e., sons, daughters, offspring) of GOD.  Once a sinner becomes a member of the family of GOD, they are rarely denied and rejected by the Father, the Son, or the Holy Spirit even though they may continue to sin, be ignorant of sacred knowledge, and fail to consistently practice important disciplines (e.g., confession, giving, praise, prayer, study of the holy writings).  Those who become blasphemers, who cherish hidden sins, and who slander and behave as agents of the Adversary (the Devil) will be corrected and punished as the children of GOD, not put out of the family.  A sinner becomes perfected, and their transformation to exist as a companion to divinity is completed only through operations of the Holy Spirit, and at the time when Christ will appear to harvest those who are his from the earth (we say, the Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  Believers must “grow up again,” and become mature as vessels of spirit content from the makeup of divinity.  Fresh endowments of inseparable spirit substance are imparted to the “new creation” including faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  In addition to completeness and correctness, believers are to display balance, focus, restraint, stability, and zeal.  Consider the following points using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Ephesians 2:  1-5, King James Version (KJV):  1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;  2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:  3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.  4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,  5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)

(2.)  Ephesians 2:  8-10, KJV:  8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:  9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.  10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

(3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  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.

(4.)  Hebrews 12:  6-10, KJV:  6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.  7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?  8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.  9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence:  shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?  10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  2nd Peter 1:  2-4, KJV:  2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,  3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:  4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises:  that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/03/2017) His Birth Signals Rebirth

 

Today, rebirth, repentance, and life from the cross are topics.  Necessary gifts for revealing divinity (i.e., making the immortal, unseen Creator knowable, known and visible to created beings and living creatures) were provided through the virgin birth, the death of Jesus on the cross, and the Savior‘s resurrection.  Sinners who acknowledge divine forgiveness may become “reborn”.  While all Christian believers do not serve as pastors, pulpit preachers, and teachers within the church, all must “fight the good fight of faith” by gradually acquiring and applying sacred knowledge, longsuffering, patience, and perseverance.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Singapore)” using the ID “Zari” (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since December 7, 2016) posted the following:

 

Does God give second chances when youve messed up?

I read stories of God restoring those who sinned such as Peter. I have repented but i feel God will not restore me and im tempted to just wallow and die

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them:  and they were sore afraid.  And the angel said unto them, Fear not:  for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.  (Luke 2:  8-12, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Firstborn of GOD (01/02/2017); Christus Natus Est Nobis (12/29/2016); The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016); Righteousness Through Jesus Christ? (12/15/2016); No Repentance Without Rebirth? (12/14/2016); On Expecting Quick Results (11/07/2016); As Newborn Babes.... (10/13/2016)

 

“Zari”, the birth of Jesus Christ, the Christmas story, introduced special mechanisms from GOD to release mankind and all creation from the bondage of death and sin.  By receiving the imparted Spirit from GOD that will indwell a believer, the living come to know GOD as an aspect of their own content.  Included are inseparable features from the makeup of Deity such as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  However, these things require multiple levels of sacred knowledge and practice to understand them completely, and have them operate in our day-to-day living in the most correct way.  The virgin birth of our Savior is a single link within a chain of sacred elements that may not be broken and separated.  The innocence and purity we see in the infant and in the virgin must be continued through the many episodes of life challenge, growth, learning, and death.  Like you and I, Jesus gradually had to become balanced, complete, consistent, stable, and useful (we say, mature).  Through operations of the same Holy Spirit that established heaven and earth, sinners become “born again.”  Their inborn spirit must die and be buried, so to speak, and they must be reborn from divine DNA.  The ongoing permanent changes in the living and their full transformation to exist as immortal, incorruptible, perfected life companions of divinity will be finished at the Advent (we also say, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming) of Jesus.  Christian believers therefore all are called “the children of GOD” and “the new creation.”  Even so, those who are reborn also must “grow up again” while facing the same life challenges as everyone else upon the earth.  Yes, there will be disappointments, human error, mistakes, problems, and even, sins; however, believers will “bounce back”, and persevere.  They will “fight the good fight of faith” by continuing to acknowledge GOD through praise, prayer, repentance, and unselfish service.  Consider the following:

(1.)  1st John 1:  5-10, King James Version (KJV):  5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.  6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:  7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.  8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

(2.)  Hebrews 12:  3-8, KJV:  3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.  4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.  5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:  6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.  7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?  8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

(3.)  Revelation 3:  18-21, KJV:  18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.  19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten:  be zealous therefore, and repent.  20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock:  if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.  21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, 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

(07/26/2015) Going Under, Rising Up

Today, I share the following poem written as a response to the blog published by Dennis Cardiff at WordPress.com, GOTTA FIND A HOME:  Conversations with Street People.  We are not human before GOD because of error, poverty, sin and wickedness.  It is not that we eat, drink, crave sex, or sleep to excess.  Nor are we recognized to be human because we are seen as infirm, soft, and weak.  Our existence as human is a divine endowment, a breath, a word, a strength that defies all suffering.  Yes, our humanness appears as need for divine love, sacred knowledge, and eternal transformation; yet, our humanity is best displayed in compassion, determination, integrity, and insistence upon righteousness.  None may claim to be human merely by habitually breaking their word, exaggerated anger (we say, rage), lying, and presumption.  We are known by divinity to be human where we will continually persevere as Spirit.  GOD has many sons and daughters who will endure pain, rejection, and death; yet, only one son born without sin, Jesus Christ.  Be encouraged! 

GOING UNDER, RISING UP

A POEM FOR CHUCK, JOE, AND THE HOMELESS ANGEL

Christians are those commanded to believe
To endure suffering with
GOD who dies through his mortal son
Accomplishing all their pain
Their shame
Their weakness
Their betrayal
Their having no place to go

These refuse to live in the cardboard box
Or sleep on a grate of steel
Yet, come under blood from a cross
The ones so lost from longing to be free
From life
From challenge
Obligation, duty
Dues, pain, fear
Pain, fear
Pain, fear
Pain, fear
Pain, fear

They commit themselves
To changing
Breaking bread
Breaking off shame-sex relationship
The politics of buy and sell
The futility of alcohol
Going under in waters of rebirth
Growing
Learning
Knowing
Giving
Singing
Not quitting, not dying, not being overcome

Living by the discipline
Of an already made up mind
Craving and receiving a taste of what’s to be
Heirs of exodus and eternal ecstasy
Who know
The problems do not disappear
They fade like street noise
There unheard
It’s what you have to do with sonic booms
Sinister voices inside your own head
The so-called issues of today,
Right-now that comes tomorrow

Love everlasting
A choice that can not be undone
to face the day pursuing
Always only Light, life agreeing
the darkness, death
And sorrow
Have all been kicked to the curb
Showing the world’s blind eye
The power in I yet love
All the gift shared by
I AM
The extra quarter, the extra blanket of his blood
 
 

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2015.  All rights reserved.





THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC