(04/15/2018) The Child Of Prophecy

The image depicts the hand of Jesus restraining the hand of Peter.

Today, reply is on the acknowledgement of covenant and law by Jesus Christ, and his surrender to the mob sent to arrest him at Gethsemane.  Jesus was among those within the Garden as an Incarnation of divinity to fulfill the promises and prophesies of GOD, a priest, a prophet, a rabbi, and the “ram caught in the thicket.”  Rather than resist the arrest, fight against the force that was dispatched, or take flight, Jesus acknowledged that his role was to submit as a lamb that would be placed on the altar of sacrifice.  When Peter attacked using a sword, Jesus rebuked him, and healed the servant of the High Priest whose ear Peter had cut off.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “?” (Level 6 with 14,244 points, a member since April 16, 2017) posted the following:


If someone told Jesus what was going to happen to him, and gave him a gun, would he have tried to escape?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:  Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.  And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.  And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.  So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.  As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.  Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;  Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;  And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;  Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.  (Hebrews 5:  1-10, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); His Suffering At Gethsemane (03/12/2018); Jesus Demonstrated Perfected Humanity (10/29/2017); The Cross was Premature? (04/07/2016); Animals Do Not Sin? (09/29/2013); GOD is Acknowledging (09/30/2013); The Passion at Gethsemane (03/28/2013); Separated and Sealed? (03/29/2013)


“?”, Christian believers are to understand Jesus correctly knew that he himself was a child of prophecy, and that he was anointed and ordained to complete the events of his life that included his death, burial, and resurrection from the dead.  Through the holy writings, through the events surrounding his birth (e.g., the slaughter of the innocents by King Herod; the Temple prophets Anna and Simeon), through the challenge made by Satan following his water baptism (turn this stone into bread), through the confirmations he received through prayer, and through many other sacred events that served as signs, he was strengthened to continue his ministry on the earth as one having authentic humanity, as one sent from GOD, and as one who would suffer the same fate as many others who served as divine prophets and spokespersons.

The revelation of GOD granted to Moses was that the Creator and Deliverer is also a GOD of Judgment.  Moses was allowed to see his glory, and Jesus Christ came as the image of GOD to further display the forgiveness, the mercy, the obedience, the reconciliation, the righteousness, and the surrender that pertain to divine judgment.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Matthew 23:  29-39, King James Version (KJV):  29 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,  30 And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.  31 Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.  32 Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.  33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?  34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes:  and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city:  35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.  36 Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.  37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!  38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.  39 For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

(2.)  John 18:  3- 13, KJV:  3 Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons.  4 Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye?  5 They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them.  6 As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.  7 Then asked he them again, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth.  8 Jesus answered, I have told you that I am he:  if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way:  9 That the saying might be fulfilled, which he spake, Of them which thou gavest me have I lost none.  10 Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.  11 Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath:  the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?  12 Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him,  13 And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year.

(3.)  Matthew 16:  21-28, KJV:  21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.  22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord:  this shall not be unto thee.  23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me:  for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.  24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.  25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it:  and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.  26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?  27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.  28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Matthew 26:  52-54, KJV:  52 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place:  for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.  53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?  54 But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/27/2015) The Last Prophet?

Points and Scriptures are shared, today, on prophecy and spiritual gifts bestowed upon the church of Jesus Christ.  While Jesus fulfilled prophecy by his actions and words, defined divine love and peace for all who would follow him, performed as a spokesperson sent from GOD (we say, prophet), and was the agent of heaven to govern as king and Messiah, his official title among those at the Temple in Jerusalem was merely that of rabbi.  At his first coming, the holy writings once spoken of as “the law and the prophets” were being interpreted to be “the law without the prophets.”  Given the politics of the times, and increasingly to please the Romans, the Pharisees and Sadducees both were pressured to eliminate the notion that prophecy would be filled on the basis of conditions (blessing and cursing).  This implied the covenant of Moses was provided on condition (i.e., strictly upon the basis of obedience); and that the nation’s law was provided only as a loose system for guidance made up of instruction, principles and recommendations that could be applied in commerce and exchange.  Jewish “law” and rule could not be seen on the level of one-world government, with codes and systems for legislation imposed upon them by Rome.  Law was to be an instrument for assimilation and control, where prophecy was an instrument for faith, relationship, trust, and worship.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Ahsan” (Level 2 with 520 points, a member since January 23, 2015) posted the following:


When Jesus isn't the last prophet?

When Jesus isn't the last prophet then what Christianity says about who will be the last prophet? How many prophets are alive, and where they are?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;  Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;  And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:  And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.  For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.  Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;  And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;  In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:  In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.  (Ephesians 2:  14-22, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Jesus Given A Divine Ministry? (08/18/2015); Christ Brought A New Nature? (07/15/2015); Fulfilling Divine Law? (07/14/2015); The Decalogue A Moral Guide? (04/15/2015); The Spirit of Truth? (02/11/2015)


“Ahsan”, far from being the last prophet, Jesus Christ may be spoken of as a “father of prophets,” and the one who restored the “school of the prophets” described in the Old Testament.  The revelation given to Christ by the Father is to be received, understood and passed on by every member of the church to others.  Here are a few points and Bible verses to consider that may be useful as you continue your study:

(1.)  Prophecy is a process and spiritual gift being used by divinity for communication, instilling hope (i.e., sacred expectations), responding to consciousness of GOD within the living (we say, adding certainty), and revealing the character and nature of Deity.  While both secular and sacred events (we also say, miracles) may be described and made known (e.g., that a virgin would be with child), the function of prophecy is not predicting human history and detailing the future before it occurs.  Prophecy declares the will and intent of GOD, and, therefore simultaneously embraces the past along with the future and the present.  1st Corinthians 14:  1-4, King James Version (KJV):  1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.  2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God:  for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.  3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.  4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

(2.)  Prophecy as a sacred gift was first bestowed upon Adam and continued to appear among those serving as priests and Patriarchs.  The prayer that all the people in covenant with GOD might have the same gift of prophecy is recorded as coming from Moses at what may be taken as the founding of the Sanhedrin court.  Numbers 11:  24-29, KJV:  24 And Moses went out, and told the people the words of the LORD, and gathered the seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them round about the tabernacle.  25 And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders:  and it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease.  26 But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad:  and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle:  and they prophesied in the camp.  27 And there ran a young man, and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp.  28 And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, one of his young men, answered and said, My lord Moses, forbid them.  29 And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD’S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!

(3.)  The gifts from GOD to mankind through the new testament in his blood founded by Jesus Christ upon the earth are described being in hierarchy and rank that suggests differences in authority for various offices within the body (e.g., bishops, deacons, disciples).  However, within the church status is determined on the basis of humility, meekness (readiness to be directed and learn through the Holy Spirit), and willingness to serve the collective.  (2)  1st Corinthians 12:  27-29, KJV:  27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.  28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.  29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?

(4.)  All the spiritual gifts that are bestowed at no cost to the receivers within the church have been purchased through the suffering, death, obedience, and service of the resurrected Christ as a high priest in the temple of heaven.  1st Corinthians 12:  1-3, KJV:  1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.  2 Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.  3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed:  and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

(5.)  The gifts of GOD through Christ and the Holy Ghost are not to divide and separate believers on the basis of sacred knowledge, sacred practices (we say, ceremonies, rites, rituals, sacraments), or church organization and policy.  Prophecy is to establish unity in the same way as shared praise and prayer, divine proclamation, and sacred promise.  1st Corinthians 12:  7-11, KJV:  7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.  8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;  9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;  10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:  11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

(6.)  There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, The gifts for the church are not provided for the pleasure and satisfaction of the clergy, particular individuals, or of a peculiar class of believer.  Prophecy is an evidence of things unseen, and accomplishes multiple works that pertain to creation, judgment, and salvation as well as the transformation of mankind to exist as immortal and incorruptible at the coming of Christ to  harvesting his church from the earth.  Ephesians 4:  10-14, KJV:  10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)  11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;  12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:  13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:  14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/08/2014) Harden Not Your Hearts?

Today, I share some thoughts (below) triggered by a recent video intended to provide instruction on the place of mercy as an aspect of divinity.  The rabbi who was teaching explained that mercy was not to be taken as the only, or most significant feature to describe GOD.  Nor was love.

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  For Priests and Sons Only? (09/07/2014)—(4.)  Anyone and everyone may benefit from sound advice, truth, and wisdom; yet, some will benefit from the same counsel more than others; and some will be cast down, overwhelmed, and ruined by the same counsel.  A Christian believer takes the view that operations carried out by the same Spirit from GOD that worked during Creation is what makes the difference.  The Bible is an incarnation, or appearance of divinity that may only be recognized and responded to by those having discernment (i.e., ability to use ones own spirit content to determine the spirit substance within various life experience such as encounters, events, messages, objects, other persons, purposes, and writings).  For that reason, the Scriptures may not be dealt with casually, or as though they are designed for mundane and profane uses.  The Bible does not supply gossip, fantasies, fictions, supernatural spells, or stories to amuse, enchant, and entertain.  Influenced by political and social doctrines, many today misapply the truth of divine grace, and express desire for equal treatment by GOD that would deny distinctions through rank, service, the place of merit as well as a place for the exalted privilege and divine prerogative of the Almighty.  Some argue there should be no provisions by GOD that do not apply across the board, and to all.  Many complain that there do not have to be judgment and wrath against sin, the total elimination of sin, and the destruction of all sinners within the Lake of Fire.  Because such persons also deny the absolute honor, integrity, and righteous of GOD, they effectively disqualify themselves as those who are trusting the goodness, love, and wisdom of the Almighty as the true sovereign over all sacred judgment.  Thereby, they become speakers who are unwise, who are not proclaiming what they have received from GOD, and may not be trusted as those authorized by GOD to speak in his Name.  It remains all attitudes, behavior, conduct, and works carried out among the faithful are not the same in their consequences, necessity, purpose, outcome, and value.  Thus, in addition to salvation, believers also are encouraged to expect an exclusive judgment, wherein only those who are immortal and incorruptible will appear, to determine rewards for those who were devoted, faithful, steadfast and transparent as servants of GOD.  See again Exodus 19:  5, Deuteronomy 14:  2, Romans 8:  16-18, 1st Corinthians 3:  11-15, 1st Peter 2:  1-10, Titus 2:  1-15 and Revelation 21;  7-8, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.  But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.  For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;  While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.  For some, when they had heard, did provoke:  howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses.  But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?  And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?  So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.  (Hebrews 3:  12-19, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Hardened Spirit? (06/12/2014); Mary (06/13/2014); Sin in Mind not Deed? (01/06/2014); Hardness of Heart? (11/24/2013); Prayer on Behalf of Others? (11/25/2013)


Lately, I’ve been considering this:  Those having no part with me now—because of my age, country of origin, ethnicity, or income bracket; those condemning, despising, rejecting, slandering, and snubbing me now—will have no part as brothers, friends, and partners with me in the times of divine reward that are to come.  Sanctification, and the process of growth in ones divine content are operations where things at first isolated, loose and soft become bonded, crystallized and permanently joined to be solid, stable, and unshakeable.

There is a “hardening” of ones heart that is in accordance with being sealed to function as an agent of GOD through Christ.  With this in view, we may say, the heart of Moses was hardened as surely as was the heart of Pharaoh.  There can be a focusing of the believer’s inward spirit content and power.  Thereby, those who serve GOD display commitment, single-mindedness, and the total investment (we say, self-sacrifice) that is very different from the hardening seen through a seared conscience that shuts out the earnest and heartfelt pleadings of divinity that draw one into intimate relationship with GOD.

Men are to understand that GOD, who is a spirit being, is made up of matter and substance that is not carnal, material or physical.  The unchanging elements of divinity have been revealed to created beings and living creatures as inseparable aspects of existence and person such as awareness, awe, faith, forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, love, majesty, maturity, perfection, stability, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Many confuse compassion, a peculiar expression of love, with mercy.  Mercy is a rubric of judgment, like attention to detail, impartiality and thoroughness.  Without judgment, there is no mercy, just as there is no decision of guilt or innocence.  Judgment is always a blessing, for the outcome of judgment is always peace.  Judgment is the resolution of conflicts and the settlement of disputes through law.  Thus, peace comes by judgment, not by war.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, love pertains to creation and life, not to death and destruction.  The interactions and social reality of created beings and living creatures must be governed by principles that emerge from love; for love is also that aspect of judgment whereby the assignment of continuing trust and value are accomplished.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/26/2014) Saul of Tarsus

Focus, today, is upon conversion and coming to Jesus as shown in the experience of Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles.  Also, there is more on when advice/rules should be obeyed as law.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “rachel m” (Level 3 with 2,498 points, a member since March 18, 2007) posted the following:


Was Jesus a Rabbi? if so, then he broke all his own rules.?

i cant understand how Jesus became so popular. i DO NOT mean to be disrespectful but why Jesus??? there were many just like him at the same time so what was so special about him??


THE BATTLE AXE:  When Is A Law The LAW? (03/25/2014)—The operations of sin influence created  beings and living creatures to despise and reject godliness in all its forms.  During his ministry upon the earth, Jesus contended against formalism (i.e., exaggerated and strict adherence to customs, traditions and practices as though their observance will satisfy all aspects of divine law). The Savior revealed that formalism is a source of confusion, error, and sin no less than idolatry that centers in worship of the law, rather than the divine law giver.  The law may become an instrument of death, and a shield to transgression where emotion, fear, and emphasis upon obedience to law are primary aspects of focus and belief.  A saving relationship with GOD, who is a spirit, may only be achieved by application of imparted, indwelling spirit matter—ones inward law.  A highly developed legal apparatus was in place that blinded men to the spirit substance of the law.  In addition to commandments, ordinances, and statutes that we immediately recognize as “the law,” the holy writings also document rulings from the system of judges who were appointed to resolve conflicts and disputes along with the pronouncements and verdicts from GOD that identify and condemn sin.  The Scriptures also provide advice and counsel that have come forth from GOD, and therefore, has been acknowledged and valued as having the same force and power as divine law.  These added treasures from GOD appear in the form of instruction, parables (we say, object lessons), precepts, principles, prophecies, warnings, and wisdom.  Consider Exodus 18:  13-26, Leviticus 18:  3-5, Deuteronomy 1:  13-17, Deuteronomy 4:  1-20, Psalms 111:  10, Proverbs 1:  7, Proverbs 9:  10, Proverbs 21:  30, Matthew 13:  33-35, 2nd Timothy 3: 16-17 and 2nd Peter 1:  19, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.  But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit:  for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.  For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.  Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.  But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God:  for they are foolishness unto him:  neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.  (1st Corinthians 2:  9-14, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Faith Given By GOD (03/13/2014); Miracles Are From GOD (03/14/2014); The Benefit of Grace (03/19/2013); Magical Resurrection? (03/20/2013); Given the Cloud of Witnesses (11/29/2012); A Golden Ticket? (11/30/2012); And This Was Good News (12/01/2012); A Need to Fear? (12/02/2012); The Slave to Law and Sin Made Free (11/16/2012); Lawful Divorce (11/17/2012)


“rachel m”, here are a few points you might want to consider before you just “give up on it” altogether:

(1.)  The Apostle Paul stands out for expressing feelings similar to yours when he first began to examine the “Jesus phenomena.”  As a dedicated and much respected scholar of Jewish law and culture, Saul of Tarsus, volunteered to serve as an officer of the Sanhedrin Court.  In effect, the Pharisee became “the Lord, High Executioner,” officially commissioned to destroy the early church.  He was given authority to offer bribes, kick down doors, take names, make arrests, torture, and preside over public executions by stoning.

(2.)  Saul had his own personal experience of Christ.  At first it came by hearing others preach, and proclaim the doctrines and teachings endorsed by Jesus.  He became impressed by the confidence, certainty, and conviction among those who were his victims.  At the same time, Saul saw gentleness, goodness, and the same spiritual power appearing among the Lord’s disciples that had been reported as shown by Jesus.  There is no report of Saul having been in any of the gatherings where Jesus healed and preached before the Lord’s crucifixion.  Yet, the stoning of a deacon, Stephen, the first martyr of the church, allowed Saul an experience within his own living spirit as if he had been physically present at the death of Jesus.

(3.)  Finally, as he was traveling to Damascus, Saul had a direct experience of Christ.  He was overwhelmed by what he heard and saw; and for three days remained blind.  Saul was himself as if dead for three days; and a disciple was sent to heal and restore him.  After instruction, he chose to honor and serve Jesus, first by accepting baptism (death of ones inborn spirit nature, rebirth having a new spirit nature from GOD), then by sharing his testimony, by personally protecting the church of Jesus, and by spreading the Gospel in places where it might not otherwise be heard.

There is a lot more to be said, correctly applied, thoroughly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  All non-believers go through the same overall process that Paul experienced.  Certainly, the details of a believer’s testimony and witness that proclaims their encounter with Christ will vary from person to person.   Nonetheless, the spiritual process of GOD is fixed, immutable, and has not changed.   By what they share and show, the disciples of Jesus (i.e., ordinary people in flesh and blood) prepare those who will finally come to Christ to have their own clear experience of his presence in their lives.)  Stay alert, for where you truly want answers from GOD, more are on the way.  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended:  but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.  (Philippians 3:  13-14, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/03/2013) Why Jesus Used Parables

The earthly ministry of Jesus and his use of parables are in focus, today, with more on why there are multiple versions of the Bible.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers Malaysia” using the ID “Raphael” (Level 2 with 621 points, a member since April 17, 2011) posted the following originally asked on Yahoo Answers Canada:


How come jesus talked in parables?

He said himself somewhere that he talked in parables, does that mean his whole teaching is a parable? Well, except the 10 commandments?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Why Not One Bible? (11/02/2013)—(5.)  Throughout all time, what believers have possessed as holy writings have been only a fragment of the sacred information revealed by GOD to created beings and living creatures.  Even so, salvation is to be by faith, not by educational attainments, knowledge and intellect.  Faith is spirit matter found in the make-up and person of GOD, and may be imparted to the living.  Faith is inseparable from other divine substance such as forgiveness, gratitude, holiness, love, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  As a result, unity within the body of Christ appears through the person and presence of Christ, and is not merely by records, reports, and written testimonies.  (6.)  Individual accountability; unity among those separated by arbitrary differences and diversity that may include levels of development, academic knowledge, maturity, and social skills; justification through faith; salvation by grace (i.e., the operation of GOD) rather than by  human works such as donating funds to charities, obedience to law, and observing religious rituals and traditions; and the believers liberty of conscience are crucial aspects of belief for all who accept death and rebirth through Jesus Christ.  As a result, many forms of emphasis, expression, sacred practice and worship are pursued that spring from a common base, and that (before detailed examination) may appear as equally legitimate (see 2nd Corinthians 1:  4, Isaiah 61:  1-3, John 8:  31-34, Romans 6:  1-23, Romans 8:  1-18, Galatians 5:  13 and 2nd Corinthians 5:  10, KJV).


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither.  The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband:  For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.  The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.  Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.  Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.  Ye worship ye know not what:  we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.  But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth:  for the Father seeketh such to worship him.  God is a Spirit:  and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.  The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ:  when he is come, he will tell us all things.  Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.  (John 4:  16-26, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Jesus and the Pharisees (07/14/2013); How Could Angels Fall? (07/15/2013); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013); Believers and the Cross (06/24/2013); Why Jesus Authored No Books (05/01/2013); Recognizing True Prophets (05/02/2013); Faith, Language and “Mystery” (04/11/2013); GOD Knows Tomorrow? (04/12/2013)


“Raphael”, here are a few points often shared among Christian believers:

(1.)  In the same way the ground must be cleared of brush, rocks, and tree stumps before it may be plowed, and furrows must be opened before seeds may be planted, parables (we say, object lessons, or narratives to explain and illustrate sacred doctrine) are used in operations performed by the Holy Spirit to arouse interest, introduce sacred themes from Scripture, and prepare the spirit to receive prophecy wherein a speaker communicates comfort, edification and exhortation.

(2.)  The ministry of Jesus was that of a Rabbi and a prophet, and did not conform to all the customs, practices and traditions endorsed by those of the synagogues and the Temple.  Until the appearance of John the Baptist, who had been a member of the priesthood, there had been no anointed prophet for more than 400 years.  In addition to the anointed priests, the Temple community determining belief and standards throughout the nation included beggars, lawyers, money changers, politicians, and even tradesmen selling animals for sacrifice.  The holy writings, their proclamations, promises from GOD and unfilled prophesies were less important and less well understood as a result of those at Jerusalem.

(3.)  Jesus spoke and behaved with humility giving less attention to confrontations and issues centering in authority, specially the insistence upon obedience to the letter of the law from GOD without having insight and wisdom concerning the spirit of the law.  Using parables, Jesus directed the people to focus upon comprehension, doctrine, and truth.  They were to recognize that even miracles were in the nature of righteousness through faith.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  The process of GOD for revelation, and for permanently implanting Christian belief has always been one of discovery and growth.  There is no one who can tell another person everything they need to know in order to have full knowledge of the things from GOD.  Yet, there are many who can share some parts of the full truth.  Today, through fellowship with other followers of Jesus Christ, prayer, and study of the holy writings, it is for each believer to seek, recognize, confirm, harmonize, and fit together the many separate sacred things that have been provided from GOD.  This is called exercising discernment, growing in grace, and walking in the spirit.)  I trust this fragment will be useful.  Even so, be it unto you according to your faith.  Jesus is coming soon.  Grow in grace.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/03/2013) Jesus, A Party Animal?

      How Jesus behaved at parties and social gatherings is the topic, today. Also, there is more on recognizing true prophets. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Sally” (Level 2 with 367 points, a member since March 4, 2013) posted the following:


Did Jesus know how to enjoying himself at parties?


THE BATTLE AXE: Recognizing True Prophets (05/02/2013)—(5.) In addition to the spirit substance of their message, apostles, prophets and teachers sent from GOD are distinct and set apart by their display of humility, lowliness and obedience more than by their apparel, appearance, authority, eccentricity, formality, healings, miracles, rhetoric or ritual. See Romans 8: 8-10, Ephesians 4: 1-32 and James 3: 13-18, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to meat. And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. (Luke 7: 36-47, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Jesus, King of Earth (10/07/2012); The Work of Jesus (03/13/2012); Signs of a Prophet (03/14/2012); Mistaken Identity (02/04/2012); The Accursed Thing (02/05/2012); Trouble For The Good (01/15/2012); Chain Of Command (01/16/2012); All Righteousness (01/11/2012); Reason to Believe (01/12/2012); Binder 23: We Cry, Abba (10/20/2011); Adulterers? (01/15/2011); Sunday? (01/16/2011)

    
     Sally, here are some points for consideration that many mature Christians agree with:

(1.) The record provided by the holy writings is intended to describe (yet, not detail) the life, ministry and service of Jesus as Son of Man, and Son of GOD upon the earth. More important than his social identity through relationships (e.g., family, followers, friends, students) are his appearance as the glory and image of GOD in human flesh; his carrying out and performing sacred events previously proclaimed, promised and prophesied; and the closure he provided for specific eternal operations including creation, judgment, redemption, salvation and sanctification.

(2.) What Jesus “knew how to do” (and demonstrated for us today) in social gatherings includes showing balance, humility, respect to ones host and their guests, and sobriety. Jesus used every dinner and feast reported in Scripture as an opportunity to clarify the doctrines, and teach regarding the Kingdom. Jesus would have had no “fun” indulging the drunkenness, “getting high” and lewd behavior some want to call a “party”, now days. We are told, Jesus loved Mary, Martha and Lazarus, and enjoyed his time in their home as a welcome guest, time that also was spent in teaching. See Luke 14: 7-27 and Luke 10: 38-42, KJV.
    
     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) As a respected rabbi, Jesus was expected to maintain a peculiar separation from others. Uncleanness that would disqualify one from communal worship and service before the altar of GOD could be transferred from person to person simply by a touch from ones garment. To recover their status within the congregation, a person would have to endure a week of isolation, fasting, prayer and washing. Given so many of his healing miracles involved touching those accounted unclean, the social conduct of Jesus astonished many of the people, and the clergy of his day.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/22/2012) Did Jesus Know?

      Whether Jesus had foreknowledge of his resurrection before it occurred is a topic, today, along with more on Naaman the Leper. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “fixer29” (Level 4 with 2,680 points, November 16, 2010) posted the following:



Did Jesus know He was going to be resurrected before He was crucified?

Or did it come as a huge surprise when He woke up in a cave three days later?



THE BATTLE AXE: Naaman the Leper (12/21/2012)—Just as the miraculous healing of Naaman followed his obedience, only after obedience do believers receive authority, gratitude, joy, trust, understanding, and the imparted, indwelling spirit of GOD (we say, the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, the Spirit of Prophecy). All believers begin without full knowledge of the Gospel, and the things given from GOD. There must be inquiry, study, decision, death and resurrection (through baptism), confirmations of faith, and continuous change by spiritual growth. Once healed of otherwise incurable disease (leprosy is sin), Naaman becomes a figure of the divinely reborn who minister to mankind by sharing the Gospel of Christ. The prophet refuses the offer of payment and earthly rewards; however, his servant, Gehazi, pursues Naaman, and seeks reward through deception and lying. As a result, the servant receives the curse of Naaman’s leprosy upon himself, and upon his own future generations. As a minister to the prophet in the way Joshua attended Moses, Gehazi was one who stands in witness to the operation and presence of GOD, and one who has received such divine gifts as covenant, deliverance, law, and priesthood. Gehazi’s covetousness, presumption, and violation of trust is like that of one who hears the Gospel message, and despises the promises and spiritual gifts preferring outward appearance (e.g., changes of raiment), influence, wealth and worldly power.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world. (John 11: 21-27, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Holy Kiss? (11/13/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012); What He Died For (09/14/2012); Chances for Change (09/15/2012); Begotten not Made (09/08/2012); About False Witness (09/09/2012); Why Jesus Prayed (08/19/2012); How Life Exists (08/20/2012); Girdle 50: Unquenchable Life (01/06/2012)



      In addition to a record of the doctrines and teachings from GOD the Father that Jesus proclaimed by his ministry as an orthodox rabbi, the Scriptures identify many of the prophesies he carried out and performed as well as the declarations of his personal conviction and faith. Even knowledge for some of the most “private” prayers of Jesus have been provided to believers through the Holy Spirit (see Luke 11: 1-4 and John 17, King James Version). Jesus was familiar with the events and portents surrounding his birth; and, being human, he endured a continual struggle to acquire a mature comprehension, and complete acceptance of sacred truth (see Matthew 25: 20-46 and Mark 14: 13-42, KJV).

      Jesus lived in a society that had many divisions, errors, and faith eroding secular influences. Even among the elders and leaders of the Temple community (often called “the Jews” in Scripture), there were disbelievers and factions driven by human error, politics, and pride. Being anchored in faith, humility, obedience and prayer, Jesus acknowledged and demonstrated to all the proper duty for a son of GOD (see Luke 4: 16-21 and Matthew 11: 1-6, KJV). The holy writings were the most widely available and shared presentation of doctrine, and provided all the necessary elements for the common acceptance of salvation through Christ. Thus, Jesus and his followers preached and proclaimed the truths of his birth, death, burial and resurrection as fulfillment of prophecy, and things of the holy record, rather than the accomplishment of private goals and purposes (see Luke 24: 1-31, KJV).

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, how we experience events in our divine spirit, or in our human imagination and thoughts are at a very different level than events in our flesh and material reality. The events of the Lord’s Passion included many unexpected details, jolts and unanticipated traumas. For example, his expectation (i.e., hope) probably did not include seeing his mother stand before him at the foot 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