(01/26/2017) Exalted By The Father?

Today, the acknowledgement and exalting of Jesus Christ by GOD the Father is in view.  For mature Christian believers there are no issues or questions concerning differences of hierarchy, rank, and subordination within the fullness of divinity (we say, the GODhead).  While the three sacred persons are correctly spoken of using language for recognizable human relationships (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), only their closeness, intimacy, and shared spirit content are signaled.  The meanings and values of terms applied to the divine persons must express direction, existence, and intent among those who appear primarily through shared eternal purpose, operations of Spirit, and accomplishment of sovereign will.  Differences do not introduce conflict, contradiction, or imbalance as seen among created beings and living creatures whose carnal, material and social exchange also may be characterized as having equality, likeness, or uniformity.  The GODhead is to be described and understood as having oneness, yet, without sameness.  Jesus Christ has appeared as “the image of GOD,” and is “exalted” by both the Father and the Holy Spirit in the sense that he is shown to be the specific aspect of divine fullness for the redemption, salvation, and perfection of Creation.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “TheReal” (Level 3 with 1,608 points, a member since December 12, 2013) posted the following:

How Could God exalt Jesus to a superior position as recorded atPhilippians 2:9 if they were equal?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;  Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;  And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:  For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.  Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.  And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:  Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.  (Acts 17:  24-31, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Firstborn of GOD (01/02/2017); Different Form, Same Relationship? (11/20/2016); Called, The 2nd Adam? (01/10/2016); The Preeminence of the Word (08/23/2015); The GOD Part of Jesus? (05/06/2015); The Idea of Perfection? (01/20/2015); The Image of GOD? (10/10/2013); Embodied Afterlife? (10/11/2013)

“TheReal”, sinners are to see unseen sacred operations through the life of Jesus Christ.  The most complete revelation of divinity to created beings and living creatures would be one that makes incarnate and visible the many inseparable aspects of spirit substance that are the makeup of Deity (i.e., the heart, mind, and soul of GOD).  Included would be faith, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The holy writings therefore speak of a Son being acknowledged by the Father as a device to make knowable, known, and “visible” the otherwise invisible Creator who is called the Word, the Everlasting Father, and Son of the Highest.  Jesus Christ was an appearance of divinity using flesh and blood.  In addition to being present in a form that would allow communication, exchange, and interaction (we say, ongoing relationship), the person of GOD among the living served as a remedy for sin that opposes the continued existence of divine law, provided correction and instruction to sinners, and established sacred mechanisms to complete the permanent transformation of mankind to exist as an immortal companion to the Holy.  While in the form of man, the Savior had to use the finite carnal, material, and social tools relied on by those in the earth (e.g., emotion, intellect, philosophy, science), and was often limited, not so much by GOD, by the limits from those he sought to serve.  Jesus existed having divine substance (just as his followers can do), and was required by the conditions for mortality to endure death with an expectation of resurrection that he shared with the Father through the divine Spirit.  Consider the following from the Bible:

(1.)  Colossians 2:  8-10, King James Version (KJV):  8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

(2.)  Matthew 13:  54-58, KJV:  54 And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works?  55 Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas?  56 And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things?  57 And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house.  58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.

(3.)  Colossians 1:  12-18, KJV:  12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

(4.)  John 10:  14-18, KJV:  14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.  15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father:  and I lay down my life for the sheep.  16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold:  them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.  17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.  18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/02/2017) The Firstborn of GOD

Today, language in the Bible is considered that speaks of Jesus Christ as begotten and firstborn.  Saying that Jesus was “first created” (i.e., the first created thing) would not be correct, because that suggests his existence had a beginning (i.e., that he is not eternal), and his active presence began through the same process as that for all Creation.  Included would be that for beasts, fowl, insects, and physical objects that were either crafted or spoken into being.  Divinity has no beginning or end, however, Christ is associated with the beginning and end of Creation as the First and the Last, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending.  The Son of the Highest (also called, the Word) was revealed and made visible as an aspect of the full GODhead by using various created forms and materials that had been fashioned by divinity, yet, could only exist as mortal and as having temporal duration.  Christ appears through unseen sacred process in order to be known using flesh and blood.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers (India)” using the ID “Lesley” (Level 5 with 6,880 points, a member since July 23, 2014) posted the following:

What is the meaning of the Bible word "firstborn" in Colossians 1:15 regarding Jesus in light of Jeremiah 31:9?

Are we to understand "firstborn" as literally meaning the person who was the first to be born? And why doesn't the Bible say Jesus was first created?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.  And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?  And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.  And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.  And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not:  behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.  And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.  And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.  And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.  And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof:  for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;  And hast made us unto our God kings and priests:  and we shall reign on the earth.  (Revelation 5:  1-10, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016); Blessing and Inheritance from Abraham? (06/05/2014); On Christians Executing Judgment (06/06/2014); Errors of King Solomon? (06/07/2014); Missing Information? (06/12/2013); The Firstborn, Higher than Kings? (12/18/2012); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012)

“Lesley”, the standing and status as firstborn pertains to specific requirements in sacred law and covenant relationship as well as preeminence over all in existence.  Jesus Christ comes to mankind as that aspect of divinity that fulfills all the demands of divine law on behalf of all Creation.  For the mortal to be in relationship with the immortal, there must be several devices (e.g., longevity, promise, family, inheritance, dynasty) to maintain continuity and stability that can not be interrupted by death.  Jesus appears on the earth using flesh and form that have been created, yet, appears through direct, unseen operations of the Holy Spirit (we say, Incarnation).  In the same way, the Lord appears as the image of GOD, he also is destroyed upon the cross as the embodiment of sin.  The Savior lawfully represents every creature that is the first child born to their own mother, for the first child inherits accountability, benefits, duties, and “life conditions” that include being in relationship with Deity as an offering and sacrifice as well as their being servants, priests and kings.  So to speak, Jesus redeems a portion of all that exists and all who lives by himself being the required payment for all liens and fines against the living.  Things from the earth that belong to and are offered to GOD must be “sent” to him using fire upon an altar.  Not placed on the altar, they must be utterly destroyed, or made to be a living sacrifice through redemption.  Reuben was the first child born to Jacob; however, Ephraim, the son of Joseph, came out of Egypt, and was adopted with his older brother by his grandfather Jacob, who blessed and promoted the younger as the firstborn, indicating election by GOD, not simply carnal birth.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Numbers 18:  15-17, King James Version (KJV):  15 Every thing that openeth the matrix in all flesh, which they bring unto the LORD, whether it be of men or beasts, shall be thine:  nevertheless the firstborn of man shalt thou surely redeem, and the firstling of unclean beasts shalt thou redeem.  16 And those that are to be redeemed from a month old shalt thou redeem, according to thine estimation, for the money of five shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, which is twenty gerahs.  17 But the firstling of a cow, or the firstling of a sheep, or the firstling of a goat, thou shalt not redeem; they are holy:  thou shalt sprinkle their blood upon the altar, and shalt burn their fat for an offering made by fire, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.

(2.)  Hosea 11:  1-4, KJV:  1 When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.  2 As they called them, so they went from them:  they sacrificed unto Baalim, and burned incense to graven images.  3 I taught Ephraim also to go, taking them by their arms; but they knew not that I healed them.  4 I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love: and I was to them as they that take off the yoke on their jaws, and I laid meat unto them.

(3.)  Colossians 1:  17-19, KJV:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Galatians 4:  1-7, KJV:  1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;  2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.  3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:  4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.  6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.  7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/20/2016) Different Form, Same Relationship?

 

Today, points are shared on the two forms of Jesus Christ in the heaven and upon the cross.  Where the Apostle John (called the Revelator) details the figure of Christ, he does not seem to describe the same person he saw upon the earth.  Similarly, when Satan challenged Christ in the mount of temptation, the Adversary did not appear to recognize him as the same one who had authority in the heaven.  For Christian believers, Jesus Christ is to be understood as a visible appearance of the Word using flesh as well as the perfected image of GOD that should appear in mankind.  Those who are born again are enabled by the Holy Spirit to discern a oneness of purpose, relationship, and divine substance without also having to see sameness (i.e., without a display of divine form as breath, life essence, and spirit).  The heavenly glory of Christ has been witnessed upon the earth through his transfiguration, resurrection, and ascension.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Canada) using the ID “BOLOBOLO” (Level 5 with 5,511 points, a member since January 02, 2015) posted the following:

If Jesus is God at JOHN 20:28, then who is God when Jesus is dying ?

Why, while hanging on the death instrument, did Jesus Christ cry out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

At Mark 15:34, Jesus' final recorded words were: '"Eìli, Eìli, laìma saqbachqthaìni?" which means, when translated: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Transfiguration of Christ (11/14/2016); Anointed, Consecrated and Installed (08/04/2016); The Only Physical Being in Heaven? (06/17/2015); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Promise of A Spirit? (11/11/2013); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012); GOD in Schools? (12/20/2012)

“BOLOBOLO”, there are many points of sacred knowledge that must be examined to correctly understand the dual nature of Jesus Christ as flesh and spirit, as Son of Man and Son of GOD.  Upon the earth, the Savior, who was called the Word in heaven, was in a material form—that of a human being.  The Lord was mortal (i.e., a living creature who would only endure for a measured period), and was required to operate using only carnal, secular, and social processes to demonstrate to believers in his name what we may accomplish as the sons of GOD in the earth.  Thus, at no time was Jesus in a different relationship with the Father, or with the Holy Spirit.  In addition to inseparable spirit content from the makeup of Deity (e.g., faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, wrath against sin), aspects of divinity have been displayed and revealed through the ministry of Jesus that we speak of as immortality, immutability, permanence, and a sovereign will that is not subject to influence and manipulation.  These features have further set Jesus apart as incorruptible, preeminent, unique, and divine.  Christ was unwavering and pursued a path detailed through the holy writings that would address and fulfill divine law, official proclamations, sacred promises, and eternal purposes.  Consider again the following:

(1.)   Hebrews 1:  1-4, King James Version (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.

(2.)  Galatians 4:  4-7, KJV:  4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.  6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.  7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

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

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

(11/11/2016) The First and Last?

Today, divine names, roles, and two versions of the Bible are in view.  The holy names revealed and used for communication within relationships between the Creator and mankind have included El Shaddai (The Almighty), Jealous, Jehovah, and the Lord of Hosts.  Titles and names used for Jesus Christ include the Redeemer, the Savior, the Son of the Highest, and the Zeal of the Lord.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no identifying profile information shared) posted the following:

Jehovah is the First and the Last, correct?

Isaiah 44 vs 6: This is what Jehovah says, The King of Israel and His Repurchaser, Jehovah of armies: I am the first and the Last. There is no God but me.

According to Revelation 2:8 And to the angel of the congregation in Smyrna write; These are the things that He says, The first and The Last who became dead and came to life again.

Can you please tell me "when did Jehovah die?"

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The GOD Named “Jealous” (09/15/2016); Jesus Known As Word (01/17/2016); We Call Him Jealous? (10/25/2015); The Preeminence of the Word (08/23/2015);The Lamb of GOD (08/19/2015); Known By Divine Revelation (06/16/2015); Evil is not Sin? (09/22/2013); Moses Killed? (09/23/2013) 

“Anonymous”, may I share a response?  Many mature Christian believers are not familiar with more than a single translation or version of the Bible, and you seem to be quoting the contemporary language Bible shared among Jehovah’s Witnesses, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (2013 Revision), NWT.  Those who pursue a study of multiple presentations often resolve the conflicts and differences among them by applying the rule that says, Not the letter, but the spirit…intent, what it means, and what you are to understand by it.  Without arguing the issue of oneness and sameness for Christ within the full GODhead with the Father and the Holy Spirit, for many readers of the King James Version (KJV), the language of “alpha and omega” is thought to acknowledge the role of Jesus Christ as the Creator as well as his preeminence in atonement, judgment, resurrection, and salvation.  The Prophet Isaiah shows GOD to be sanctified (exalted; set apart) by declaring his immortality, incorruption, and purity (i.e., absence of aging, decay, rotting) as well as having divine foreknowledge, and unlimited sacred duration (i.e., active and present (here) through the continuums of time and space we call the past, now (the present), and the future).  The many titles granted to Jesus Christ within the Scriptures, and the living culture of born-again believers include “Faithful and True,” “head of the church,” “the king of glory,” “the mighty GOD,” “the Everlasting Father,” “the Crucified One,” “the One Sent,” and “the Risen Lord.”  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Isaiah 9:  6-7, King James Version (KJV):  6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given:  and the government shall be upon his shoulder:  and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.  7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

(2.)  Revelation 1:  5-8, KJV:  5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,  6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.  7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him:  and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.  8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

(3.)  Psalms 24:  7-10, KJV:  7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.  8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.  9 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.  10 Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 19:  11-14, KJV:  11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.  12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.  13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood:  and his name is called The Word of God.  14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/13/2015) Jesus Our Only Hero?

Hero-worship (i.e., idolatry), false religiosity, distraction from the work of the Gospel and misdirection are themes, today.  Because just being sorry for sin does not cleanse, excuse or save us, Christian believers are participating in a sacred process of identifying themselves in Christ such that the Savior becomes accountable for their errors and sins, and the righteousness of Christ becomes manifest and present through the life of the believer.  Just as Christ is credited for enduring condemnation and suffering, the Lord—not his follower or servant—is to be recognized for the circumspection, courage, discipline, dutifulness, faithfulness, generosity, obedience, reverence, tenderness, truthfulness, sacrifice and sweetness expressed by every believer.  Consider again 2nd Timothy 1:  7-10, King James Version (KJV):  7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.  8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;  9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,  10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Solitary Wiccan” (Level 3 with 1,369 points, a member since May 06, 2014) posted the following:


Why is Kim Davis seen as a hero to a lot of Christians?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  Not of works, lest any man should boast.  (Ephesians 2:  8-9, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  None Higher Than Christ? (09/04/2015); How To Measure Spiritual Progress? (04/19/2015); Heroes Who Are Atheists? (01/23/2015); Asked to Carry the Cross? (07/25/2014); Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); Wanting to Have Our Way (03/09/2013); Not Even Sorry? (03/10/2013); Hero or Zero? (12/04/2012); The Adversary? (12/05/2012)


“Solitary Wiccan”, throughout human history and the many religious traditions, Jesus is the only champion for mankind’s deliverance (i.e., rescue) and salvation from sin acknowledged upon the earth as provided from GOD.  When a person appears having the courage to champion the Bible and its teachings, many are deceived as though GOD is active and present through that individual.  Mature believers are slow to endorse celebrities, political figures, and those promoted through popular culture, because we realize that Satan can still appear as though an angel of light, and has been known to use Scriptures as well as carnal, material and social appeals to ensnare the weak.  Here are a few points to consider that have helped many Christian believers maintain a balanced, mature and sober understanding of their new relationship with the Creator through Jesus Christ:

(1.)  Born again believers are challenged to “grow again”, gradually acquiring sacred knowledge, continuing special  practices (we say, sacraments) within a sanctified community, and meeting the routine life challenges (we say, growing pains) for those upon the earth.  Because there is a shift at the core and foundation of their full character, person and spirit content, every aspect of a believer’s desires, emotions, motives, psychological makeup, standards, thoughts, and values also are permanently altered.

(2.)  Through fresh deposits of the spirit matter received by Adam at Creation, the consciousness within a believer centers upon divinity more continuously, and acknowledges the exalted and unique aspects of Deity as they appear and become manifest.  Included are such inseparable aspects of divinity as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, purity, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(3.)  Relationships among believers are established and maintained primarily upon the basis of fellowship and intimacy as co-workers in spreading the Gospel, prayer-partners, those preparing for the Advent (soon-coming) of Jesus, and those who suffer together as incarnations, spokespersons (we say, prophets) and representatives of Christ.  With this in view, spouses, ones parents, their children and other family members, even holy angels have a new standing and status that is lower than that of the Savior.  No one other than Jesus can or will endure for mankind and all the earth, and serve as our divine advocate before the universe.

There are many other points that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Secularization of the Scriptures is forbidden, as are the vain efforts to use sacred authority in secular offices (e.g., government clerk, Congressman, President).  The divine process for salvation does not encourage boasting, self-promotion, showing-off, and vain glory.  The holy writings provided to establish health, peace and strength within the body of believers is not a tool for secular conflicts.  Modern clergy and evangelists often walk a thin line between the sacred and the profane.  Thus, even canonization now looks suspect as a practice in the church as though saints are voting members to a hall of fame, or all-star players roster in baseball.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/04/2015) None Higher Than Christ?

Scripture points are shared, today, on the teaching that a Christian believer’s commitment to the Savior must be greater than their feelings for parents and other family.  Emotions, respect, and sentiment are not solid ground that GOD may use for plantings that can grow and be harvested for eternal life.  While blood and inheritance should stand over time as ones heritage and legacy, they add little weight in the balance and judgment against sin.  The believer must come under the blood of Jesus, and become rooted in spirit content from the makeup of Deity for permanent change in ones character and nature to occur as well as for such godly features to be consistently expressed as devotion, obedience, praise, reverence and zeal.  The choice to follow Christ is not to be taken lightly.  Thus, many who are not believers are offended at the pointed counsel and warnings spoken by the Lord that they receive as forbidding bereavement, mourning and showing love to the dead:  And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.  And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.  And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.  Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead:  but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.  And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.  And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:  57-62, KJV).  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “hail” (Level 1 with 123 points, a member since August 30, 2015) posted the following:


Why Jesus say Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me. Matt10:37 The 10 commandments say honour thy mother.?


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


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Approaching Mothers Day (05/07/2015); Family and Beliefs of Children? (08/29/2014); Stories Repeated in the Bible?  (08/30/2014); Therefore There Was Trust (01/07/2013); When Does Gossip Become Sin? (01/08/2013); Saved in Childbearing (10/31/2012); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012)


“hail”, simply put, as pertains to godliness, rebirth, salvation and eternal life, Jesus Christ is to have preeminence above our parents and other loved ones.  None is to be regarded as more exalted than the Son of the Highest, who is also called Alpha and Omega, Faithful and True, “the Lamb of GOD that taketh away the sin of the world.”  Sacred knowledge and routine practice must be in agreement in order for believers to accomplish the many necessary tasks for preparing to receive Jesus at his appearing (we say, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  Born again, believers are to “grow up again,” and become ripe (mature) for the transformation they must undergo when Christ comes to harvest the earth of all those he has claimed through the blood of the cross.  Believers are not commanded to judge, condemn or deny their parents, siblings and other family members, nor are they required to dissolve their marriages, disown their children, or relocate themselves to be away from family that are disbelievers.  The followers of Jesus are to continue sharing affection, courtesy, encouragement, protection, listening and respect, yet, are cautioned to realize that only the provisions from GOD through the Savior will establish a permanent cleansing and separation from sin.  When conflict between standards given by GOD and those pursued by family members appear, believers are not to argue, criticize, debate and quarrel.  Rather, as those who are born again, believers are to hold to divine purpose with balance, kindness, tact, and truth.  Emotions and feelings should never be taken as a sound platform whereon ones salvation may be built up.  Consider again these points that have been shared through the holy writings:

(1.)  Acts 4:  8-14, KJV:  8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,  9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;  10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.  11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.  12 Neither is there salvation in any other:  for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.  13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.  14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 3:  11-17, KJV:  11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.  12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;  13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest:  for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.  14 If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.  15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss:  but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.  16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?  17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

(3.)   1st Peter 2:  1-5, KJV:  1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,  2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:  3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.  4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,  5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

There are many other Scriptures that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and made a permanent part of ones own sacred knowledge.  (For example, (4.)  Micah 7:  2-9, KJV:  2 The good man is perished out of the earth:  and there is none upright among men:  they all lie in wait for blood; they hunt every man his brother with a net.  3 That they may do evil with both hands earnestly, the prince asketh, and the judge asketh for a reward; and the great man, he uttereth his mischievous desire:  so they wrap it up.  4 The best of them is as a brier:  the most upright is sharper than a thorn hedge:  the day of thy watchmen and thy visitation cometh; now shall be their perplexity.  5 Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide:  keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.  6 For the son dishonoureth the father, the daughter riseth up against her mother, the daughter in law against her mother in law; a man’s enemies are the men of his own house.  7 Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation:  my God will hear me.  8 Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy:  when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.  9 I will bear the indignation of the LORD, because I have sinned against him, until he plead my cause, and execute judgment for me:  he will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold his righteousness.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/23/2015) The Preeminence of the Word

Scripture points on the appearance and manifesting of divinity through word and deed are shared, today.  To me as a Christian writer who has sought to honor GOD with books on the sacred meanings of marriage, human sexuality, and the crown of life, the substance of salvation is conveyed by words that establish divine intent and eternal purpose.  While some are unbalanced in their commitment, sacred knowledge and service, all born again Christian believers are in an ongoing process where permanent changes in their nature and character are being made through both the divine word and the imparted Spirit, the Holy Ghost.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Dangerous Mr.” (Level a member since May 20, 2012) posted the following:


Why do Christians pay more attention to what God says than what God does?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant:  but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.  11 And the LORD said unto him, Who hath made man’s mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the LORD?  12 Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.  13 And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send.  14 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee:  and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart.  15 And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth:  and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do.  16 And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people:  and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God.  (Exodus 4:  10-16, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Can The Bible Be Increased? (05/31/2015); The Words Are Spirit? (06/03/2015); On Saying the Truth? (12/17/2014); What is Truth? (12/19/2014); Utterance is Spirit (09/08/2013); A Start for the Idea of GOD? (09/09/2013); Words Spoken By GOD? (06/05/2013); Teachings on Judgment (06/06/2013)


“Dangerous Mr.”, while it’s true that, for created beings and living creatures, “active presence” is called “existence” and “life”, the processes of divinity for continuing in relationship with mankind upon the earth have always centered in utterance.  Included are commandment, doctrine (we say, formal teachings), guidance, instruction, divine law, praise, proclamation, promise, prophecy and revelation.  For many, grace, sacred knowledge, and utterance pertain to spirit, while actions pertain to flesh, things carnal and material. The very existence of the earth and most of its living creatures have been through operations of divine word that, within the frameworks of time and space, may be directed without boundaries and limits.  Expectation and fulfillment are necessary aspects for exchange, interaction and realization, making what is invisible known, memorable, and tangible.  This is important, for GOD is a spirit who must be acknowledged and worshiped in spirit and in truth.  The existence of mankind is by word (we also say, breath, essence, and spirit).  Most Christian believers will agree that words whisper and actions SHOUT.  Yet, the reconfiguration and transformation of mankind to permanently display the divine nature as immortal and incorruptible begins at the word of GOD in baptism, and is completed in the coming of Jesus to harvest believers from the earth.  Please consider the following from Scripture:

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

(2.)  Genesis 1:  24-28, KJV:  24 And God said, Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind:  and it was so.  25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind:  and God saw that it was good.  26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:  and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.  27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.  28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it:  and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

(3.)  Isaiah 55:  8-12, KJV:  8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.  9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.  10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:  11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth:  it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.  12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace:  the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

(4.)  1st Kings 19:  9-12, KJV:  9 And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah?  10 And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts:  for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.  11 And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind:  and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake:  12 And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire:  and after the fire a still small voice

(5.)  Acts 4:  27-31, KJV:  27 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,  28 For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.  29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings:  and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,  30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.  31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

(6.)  Acts 2:  1-4, KJV:  1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.  2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.  3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.  4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

There is far more that could be said, and that must be correctly understood and spiritually taken into account.  (For example (7.)  Colossians 1:  12-20, KJV:  12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/10/2013) The Image of GOD?

The status of believers as “gods”, and some points on the image of GOD are our focus, today.  Also, there is more on how Spirit resolves the conflicts of brain and heart.  At “Yahoo! Answers Canada” a writer using the ID “el” (Level 1 with 9 points, a member since September 15, 2013) posted the following originally asked in “Yahoo Answers United Kingdom”:


Does the bible say that we are made in gods image?

If it does say that, does that mean we are gods? What is your interpretation of it. Thanks


THE BATTLE AXE:  Heart, Brain or Spirit? (10/09/2013)—Because human order to process the many streams of mental data and carnal sensation relies upon frameworks of time and space, all life experience at first appears as discrete events, and separate episodes.  The heart (i.e., emotions, imagination, lust, passion) often disagrees with the brain (i.e., intellect, logic, reason), and maintaining a healthy balance may be a daily challenge.  This disguises and masks many uninterrupted sacred operations and ongoing eternal events that are the revelation of Divine Person.  Today and until the time that is yet to come, GOD, who proclaimed himself before Moses as a Judge and lawgiver, will appear before Creation through such process as judgment, birth, forgiveness, rebirth, atonement, repentance, salvation, and sanctification.  See Ephesians 1:  3-14, Romans 8:  15-17, 1st John 5:  1-9 and 2nd Peter 1:  2-11, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;  That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;  Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;  Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  (Colossians 1:  9-18, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Only One GOD (09/14/2013); Weed and Godly Wisdom (09/15/2013); Putting GOD First? (06/02/2013); Need for A New Holy Spirit? (06/03/2013); A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); Aliens? (09/24/2012)


“el”, here are a few points you may find useful as aspects of full Christian belief:

(1.)  GOD is a spirit whose makeup is inseparable, invisible substance such as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Because the foundations for carnal, material and social reality experienced among created beings and living creatures have all been put forth through operations of GOD, everything in our experience may display some features for knowledge about the Almighty.  For humans who must depend on frameworks of time and space, what we know of GOD is often decided by focus and refocus of the mind that includes analysis, fantasy, imagination, intelligence, and logic along with the use of comparison (seeing things are the same) as well as contrast (seeing things are not the same).  There are multiple levels of truth and understanding.

(2.)  Christians trust that they are provided with a fresh endowment of spirit content from the person of GOD through the ministry of Jesus as their Risen Lord.  Ones own spirit substance makes possible the necessary awareness, discernment (i.e., ability to recognize spiritual things using other spiritual things), and meekness, (i.e., readiness to learn when taught by the Spirit of GOD) whereby they are children of GOD, and new creatures.  Born again from divine DNA, so to speak, believers must “grow up” again (we say, must mature, be perfected).  Life challenges must be endured that may include disappointments, errors, financial hardships, loss of loved ones, and persecution for ones beliefs.

(3.)  The Bible is a collection of documents and records that describe sacred operations of GOD among mankind that make divinity known and visible in terms of attitudes, events, and purposes.  Included are  confessions, covenants, evil (we say, calamity, upheaval, sudden and widespread change), judgments against sin (we say, plagues), miracles, praises, prayers, proclamations, promises and prophecy.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Believers all display an aspect of the image of GOD where we operate as agents and spokespersons (prophets) of GOD.  Cooperation, leadership and sharing of respect in ones home, ones community, and ones nation should all show some varying features of divine authority and sovereign power.)  I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/28/2013) The Passion at Gethsemane

      Focus, today, is upon the passion of Christ, and there is more on the Advent of the Holy Spirit. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Billy” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since March 27, 2013) posted the following:


Why did jesus sweat blood?


THE BATTLE AXE: The Spirit and Pentecost (03/27/2013)—The holy seeds planted by Christ were words of proclamation, promise, and prophecy while the actual harvest was to be the glory of the earth contained as the imparted, indwelling spirit from GOD. Called the “promise of the father” (see Acts 1: 4 and 8, KJV), the Comforter (John 14: 26, KJV) and the Spirit of Truth (John 15: 26, KJV), the Spirit found in Jesus was to indwell and transform mankind. The entire Holy Spirit as a person of the GODhead cannot be deposited into mankind. However, mankind receives peculiar gifts that are divine substance representing the life of Jesus, and permitting the further revelation of GOD. As joint-heirs with Jesus, only partial authority and power are bestowed upon mankind, while Christ as the firstborn from death is exalted and preeminent above all (Matthew 28: 17-19 and Colossians 1: 18, King James Version).


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And David went up by the ascent of mount Olivet, and wept as he went up, and had his head covered, and he went barefoot: and all the people that was with him covered every man his head, and they went up, weeping as they went up. (2nd Samuel 15: 30, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Accomplished in Christ? (01/16/2013); The Need to Purify Heaven (01/17/2013); Did Jesus Know? (12/22/2012); The True Miracle (12/23/2012); (09/15/2011) Dispatch 36: His Grace; (08/24/2011) Dispatch 16: The Ally (Wounded); To Save Jesus? (03/12/2011); Having Life? (03/13/2011); The Lord’s Prayer (12/18/2010); Awesomeness? (12/19/2010)


      Billy, many mature Christian believers understand the passion and suffering of Jesus began immediately following the last Passover meal and introduction of the Lord’s Supper that we call “Holy Communion.” His thoughts regarding the purposes of GOD became increasingly troubled and unclear. Jesus did not doubt, yet, he experienced a frightening uncertainty, and an overwhelming sense of sorrow. The agony of crucifixion began within his spirit through the separation for betrayal that was committed by Judas. Just as the rebellion of Absalom against his father King David displayed the wrath of GOD against David in particular, against his entire household and against the covenant nation, Judas leaving the assembly depicts the rejection of Christ by the Temple elders, by all Israel, and by the world as described through the Roman Empire. More than this, Jesus again saw the unchanging wrath of GOD against sin leveled against all the earth as at Noah’s day, and that, both the condemnation and salvation for mankind was being sealed.

      The holy writings report his prayers at that time (see Matthew 26: 36-46 and Mark 14: 32-43, KJV). Specifically we read: And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (See Luke 22: 44, King James Version.) Many read this as saying, Jesus was pouring out his life as he prayed. More correctly, the aspects of flesh are brought into view, for sweat represents effort (works rather than faith) as well as uncleanness (we say “dis- fellowship,” “enmity” and “sin”). His mortality is affirmed, and his death is again foreshadowed as the sweat is swallowed up by the earth (from dust thou art…).

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, in spirit, the trial initiated by Judas was a continuation of the trial from Satan that followed the baptism by John at the Jordan River (e.g., Matthew 4: 1-11, KJV). Many things were unknown to Jesus, and he had to go forward on the basis of his faith not having seen or heard the testimony from heaven that had been given to John (the dove, the voice). Forty burning days and freezing desert nights without food and drinks challenged Jesus to commit himself to a total dependence upon GOD, as would the lash, the crown of thorns, the nails and splinters of the cross.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC