(09/14/2020) When Is Anger Ungodly?

 

Today, reply is on when human anger transgresses sacred law. Properly understood anger is an emotion that itself does not respond to the Spirit of GOD, the law of GOD, nor the intellect and rational faculties within mankind. Anger is an aspect of human potential whereby the living present themselves as having character and inner substance as animal, human, or creatures capable of displaying divine process, purpose, and spirit substance. Anger and its complements (e.g., bitterness, envy, grudges, hate, impatience) do not conform to the demands of logic and reason, therefore anger may cause and produce unintended consequences and effects among material and social beings. Saying this another way, anger can be dangerous, beyond human control, and self-destructive. Where the wrath of GOD against sin appears, it is always a manifesting of the eternal divine nature, not an appearance of temporary emotion or feelings that may pass away. It is written: Ecclesiastes 7: 8-10, King James Version (KJV): 8 Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit. 9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shared) posted the following:

When does anger become sinful?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools. Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good. (Ecclesiastes 9: 17-18, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Fullness Includes Wrath (02/23/2020); Sin Opposes All Existence (12/13/2019); The Sovereignty Of GOD (11/24/2019); Divine Anger at Harvest? (05/26/2019); Moses Was Not Divine (04/24/2019); Anger Against Our Parents? (01/10/2019); Jesus Rebuked The Moneychangers? (05/16/2018)

“Anonymous”, mature Christian believers are encouraged to regard anger as an expression from operations within ones own flesh rather than a product from the Holy Spirit imparted to believers as life essence (breath; spirit; utterance; word) from the makeup of GOD. As a human emotion and feeling, many refuse to condemn anger for it is commonly experienced as acceptable, justifiable, natural, normal, and unavoidable. Anger is understood as operating according to mechanical process and natural law rather than sacred law. To the extent that human anger opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the fullness of divine order throughout the universe, human anger also opposes divine forgiveness, redemption, repentance, and salvation. Wrath against sin is an inseparable aspect of divine fullness that the living may receive as a fresh endowment from the ministries of Jesus Christ. Included are balance, commitment, discernment, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, and wisdom. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and We Can Be Kind, a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Galatians 5: 16-26, King James Version (KJV): 16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

(2.) Colossians 3: 9-17, KJV: 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: 11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. 12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

(3.) Revelation 11: 15-19, KJV: 15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. 16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God, 17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned. 18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth. 19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJ-iXt14nrg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:10, PM September 13, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/236x/52/11/9a/52119ac516fc1ce1de4851090b414ab5.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/11/2018) The Option of Atheism

ASTRONOMER CARL SAGAN

Today, the reply is on atheist disbelief existing as an aspect of reason and science, yet, being no alternative to acknowledgement, commitment, and faith that respond to the existence of divine fullness.  The problems generated by atheism center on false and logically flawed professions to justify disbelief; the endorsement of pseudo-intellectualism; and the communication, proliferation, and transfer of vanity (the lack of divine content and sacred substance).  Using the disciplines and rules for genuine scientific inquiry, there are multiple times and settings where divinity is an inappropriate hypothetical concept that does not further clarification, discourse, and formal dialog.  In such cases, divinity correctly should be excluded as an unworkable abstraction.  That this is so does not discount the truth that spiritual events and operations require discipline, knowledge, and practice that are sacred in content, operation, and outcome as seen through fasting, prayer, and exorcism.  One of the many fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


Why is it that by many definitions atheism is very stupid?

Even Carl Sagan said

"An atheist is someone who is certain that God does not exist, someone who has compelling evidence against the existence of God. I know of no such compelling evidence. Because God can be relegated to remote times and places and to ultimate causes, we would have to know a great deal more about the universe than we do know to be sure that no such God exist"


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit;  And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him:  and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away: and I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not.  He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me.  And they brought him unto him:  and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.  And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child.  And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him:  but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us.  Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.  And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.  When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.  And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him:  and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.  But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.  And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?  And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.  (Mark 9:  17-29, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); Truths To Live By (02/02/2018); Secular History, Sacred Revelation? (01/11/2018); The Most Important Thing (12/28/2017); Confused By Spiritual Puzzles (11/13/2017); Standing On The ABCs? (11/09/2017); “and without Him nothing” (08/14/2017); About Deluding Yourself? (09/22/2014); Delusions and Revelation (09/23/2014)


“Anonymous”, science does not go far enough in reaching all human needs.  Finite carnal reason and logic that serve as the platform for atheist thought are not complex, truly intellectual, or profound.  Simply put, and using common sense terms, two rules prevail:  (1) “seeing is believing;” and (2) the only phenomena of life that is fit for the focus of science must display measurable dimensions (e.g., amount, density, height, length, weight), and must be subject to experimental manipulation.  The human mind is bombarded with enormous amounts of data and information from moment to moment.  Included are signals from organs and tissues that make up the material body, emotions (e.g., anger, fear, sorrow), operations of the mind (e.g., clairvoyance, imagination, recall, thought), and sensations (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching).  There must be principles, rules and standards in place that establish order, determine benefit, and permit the recognition of priority conditions and unmet needs.  

Properly understood, science and its promotion of secular knowledge, is a peculiar accord and covenant for shared meaning, quality, and value that denies and excludes consideration of everything that has divinity as its cause, makeup, origin, and process.  The excellence and usefulness of science turns on its attention to detail through analysis; its establishment of predictability and validity through precise measurement and repetition; and its being able to identify fixed points of reference within complex, hidden, or obscured sequences.  Thus, in the same way, children who can recite their ABCs, are not foretelling the future, or reading the mind of their teacher when saying the alphabet, yet, they know “XYZ” is coming, science, too, is a limited, plain, and simple element for understanding the fullness of life.  (While children may recite the alphabet perfectly, many still can not read and write.  They must gain skill to perform the routines of combination and permutation used when sounding out or spelling words; and they must practice to develop comprehension.)

Like the frameworks of time and space, secular knowledge is an adjunct, an additional tool, and a further provision from divinity along with sacred knowledge, and is not in place of sacred knowledge.  (Has the automobile completely eliminated the usefulness of a bicycle?)  Mankind has very real, unmet emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs that even medical science does not address.  Included are needs for forgiveness, peace, relief from human error and sin (even scientists are included within the class of “sinners”), respect, and truth that directs and sustains the highest levels for human potential.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  John 4:  24,  King James Version (KJV):  24 God is a Spirit:  and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

(2.)  Romans 10:  1-9, KJV:  1 Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.  2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.  3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.  4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.  5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.  6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)  7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)  8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart:  that is, the word of faith, which we preach;  9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

There are many more verses and passages that could be cited.  (For example, (3.) Romans 1:  16-22, KJV:  16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:  for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.  17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith:  as it is written, The just shall live by faith.  18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;  19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.  20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:  21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.  22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIXWashington, DC

(05/18/2017) Human Nature, Divine Spirit?

Today, points are shared on mankind as more than “a brain” having physical being in a material world.  Where we agree that humans are more than mere “thinking machines,” it is acceptable to ask, In what way?  More than this, the proposed existence of GOD also requires consideration for such elements as communication with Deity, divine law, sacred process, and eternal purpose.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “va2906” (Level 2 with 530 points, a member since July 30, 2016) posted the following:  

Why would God give us a brain and then give us a nonsensical bible, then tell us were going to Hell if we don't believe?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.  (2nd Timothy 1:  7, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Convinced/Convicted? (05/16/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); Christianity Is Not Mindless (05/02/2017); Proof That GOD Exists? (10/16/2016); Abstractions, Atheism and I.Q. (08/18/2016); The Rise in Atheism? (07/07/2016); Guided By Divine Truth (06/20/2016)


“va2906”, the problem of defining and knowing “spirit” will be encountered for anyone seeking a full and correct knowledge of mankind.  Many are ignorant and lack sacred knowledge because they refuse to respect such divine tools as the Bible.  Where you will agree that the content of living creatures on the earth is made visible through their multiple abilities, activities, characteristics, skills, and possibilities for expression, it is reasonable to say, mankind is more than simply “a brain.”  Through the operations of “mind”, the living are able to process unbelievable amounts of data and information that include appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual arousal), emotions (e.g., anger, fear, sorrow), secular knowledge, sensations (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), and abstract thought (e.g., measurable dimension, fantasy, imagination, projection).  With this in view, human potential is understood as going beyond mechanical “data processing,” for through the operations of awareness and self-will mankind may repeatedly display an animal, a distinctly human nature, or a godly and spirit-filled nature akin to that attributed to Deity.  

Finite academic and mental tools such as intellect, logic, carnal reason, and “critical thinking” have been found inadequate and inappropriate for acquiring and applying the necessary revelation and sacred knowledge that must be imparted by GOD for men to truly know their Creator.  GOD is active presence and “spirit” (we also say, breath, life essence, utterance, word) who expresses and uses such elements as authority, oneness without sameness, ownership, person, purpose, the frameworks of time and space as well as “sovereign will.”   Where deposits of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD reside within created beings and living creatures they all may project the divine spirit and the “image of GOD.”

Sinners who endure the operations spoken of as rebirth (death, burial, and resurrection of the inborn/inbred spirit; renewal having spirit content from GOD through Jesus Christ) are to be understood as sons and daughters, offspring of GOD, and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, the Son of the Highest.  Because GOD is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible, divinity can only be fully recognized and responded to by operations of ones own endowment of spirit from GOD.  Included must be faith, holiness, hope, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider the following points from the Bible:

(1.)  John 3:  1-7, King James Version (KJV):  1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:  2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God:  for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.  3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.  4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

(2.)  John 1:  11-14, KJV:  11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:  13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/16/2017) Convinced/Convicted?

 

Today, focus is on language describing the sinner’s standing as a new creation of GOD through the Holy Spirit.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers (Philippines)” using the ID “Adam” (Level 1 with 121 points, a member since April 26, 2017) posted the following:


What does it mean to be convicted/convinced by the Holy Spirit?

Thoughts? Scripture?

Thanks in advance!


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:  For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:  In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.  But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.  Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;  And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:  Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.  Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;  Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any:  even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.  And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.  And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.  (Colossians 3:  5-15, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Genuine Spiritual Discernment? (03/27/2017); The Complete Divine Revelation? (03/10/2017); Divine Meanings and Values? (03/31/2016); Convicted By His Humility (09/10/2015); American Culture and Law? (07/13/2015); Meanings That Support Eternal Existence? (06/02/2015); How To Have Conviction (11/24/2012); A Text for Lives Today? (11/25/2012)


“Adam”, here are some points I can share as a Christian believer.  A sinner must eventually become aware of and realize the active presence of divine substance within their own life such as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, hope, joy, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.   Sacred knowledge and discernment (ability to apply ones own spirit content from the makeup of GOD as a standard to recognize and respond to deposits of the same spirit matter within events, oneself, other persons, utterances, etc.) can be gained through contemplation and prayer, fellowship with other believers, regular study of the holy writings, and observance of spiritual practices (we say, “sacraments” such as baptism, confession, the Lord’s Supper).

The language that one is “convinced” actually speaks to becoming “persuaded”, and therefore suggests that the process of the Holy Spirit relies on the finite human tools of academic argument, debate, intelligence, logic, carnal reason, and critical thinking.  More correctly understood, there are  operations of GOD performed through the covenant relationship established by Christ, and the “battle” is not for the mind, rather it is for the self-will to conform to the divine will. 

The language that one is “convicted” speaks to acknowledging ones own immersion within a divine process of judgment against sin that already has been concluded.  Mature believers understand all mankind is guilty before GOD, is now sentenced to death, and is both required to complete mortality and endure an ongoing examination for final destruction in a second death.  Only by atonement and the many provisions of GOD in Christ does the guilty sinner become transformed to exist having “eternal life” as a companion to immortal, incorruptible, invisible divinity.  Consider again the following using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Ezekiel 18:  19-21, King James Version (KJV):  19 Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live.  20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son:  the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.  21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.

(2.)  2nd Corinthians 1:  9-10, KJV:  9 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead:  10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver:  in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;

(3.)  Romans 5:  6-9, KJV:  6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.  7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die:  yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.  8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

(4.)  Romans 5:  17-21, KJV:  17 For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)  18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  19 For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.  20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:  21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

(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.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (6.)  Revelation 21:  7-8, KJV:  7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.  8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone:  which is the second death.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/17/2016) Discernment and Common Sense

Points are shared, today, on recognizing Jesus Christ as a physical person, and a spirit person.  Even from before the time of his birth, for anyone to correctly recognize who Jesus is there must be operations of the Holy Spirit, including being touched by blood, correction, and truth from the cross.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Luke 24:39 Look at My hands and My feet. It is I Myself. Touch Me and see--for a spirit does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have."?

Does this mean that Jesus did not die, if we read it using common sense?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast:  The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.  Philip cometh and telleth Andrew:  and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus.  And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.  Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone:  but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.  He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.  If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be:  if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.  Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour:  but for this cause came I unto this hour.  Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.  The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered:  others said, An angel spake to him.  Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes.  (John 12:  20-30, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Cross and Resurrection Sunday? (03/16/2016); Seeing Jesus While Alive? (02/05/2016); In The Image of Man (05/04/2016); The Only Physical Being in Heaven? (06/17/2015); Death, Forgiveness, Sin and Spirit? (05/28/2015); The Image of GOD? (10/10/2013); Embodied Afterlife? (10/11/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, correctly recognizing Jesus Christ requires discernment (the ability to use ones own spirit content to distinguish and connect to spirit substance from divinity that appears in actions, events, other persons, purposes, statements, etc.), a spiritual gift that must be provided by GOD.  Both before and following his crucifixion, burial, and resurrection, only those closely associated with Jesus of Nazareth had the ability to recognize him in a crowd.  Jesus was plain looking with no outstanding physical features that set him apart (we say, he was nondescript).  He did not continually “glow” from glory as Moses did at one time following his communion with GOD in the mountains.  Surrounded by the twelve apostles and an ever-increasing multitude of disciples, the Lord became “impressive” only when he acted and spoke in the authority and power of his priesthood.  For this reason, someone who could betray him was sought, one of his close followers, who could approach him, even give him a kiss, and identify him in the darkness of night.  In the same way Mary mistook Jesus to be a stranger (the gardener) at the tomb, and those on the road to Emmaus could not recognize the Lord until he broke bread and offered thanks to the Father, the Resurrected One is not recognized among us today by those relying upon “common sense.”  To “recognize” the Lord and those sent as his ambassadors, believers must apply their own faith and sacred knowledge as well as their experiences through fellowship and ongoing practice of the sacraments.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Matthew 14:  23-27, King James Version (KJV):  23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.  24 But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves:  for the wind was contrary. 25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.  26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.  27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

(2.)  Jeremiah 29:  11-13, KJV:  11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.  12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.  13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

(3.)  Acts 7:  54-56, KJV:  54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.  55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,  56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.

There is far more to be said, understood, and spiritually taken in.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 1:  13-18, KJV:  13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.  14 His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire;  15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.  16 And he had in his right hand seven stars:  and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword:  and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.  17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:  18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX 
Washington, DC

(12/20/2015) Why Was Lot Spared?

Points are shared, today, on Abraham, Lot, redemption, and salvation.  In the same way GOD revealed himself to Moses as a deity who pursues judgment against sin, GOD made himself known to Abraham as a “god of judgment.”  More than this, however, GOD demonstrated that deliverance, mercy, and salvation are also aspects of sacred process on behalf of created beings and living creatures.  Consider again the following verses from the Bible, and the presentation below:  Isaiah 1:  18, King James Version (KJV):  18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:  though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.  Also, Genesis 18:  24-26, KJV:  24 Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city:  wilt thou also destroy and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are therein?  25 That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked:  and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee:  Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?  26 And the LORD said, If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare all the place for their sakes.  Hosea 6:  5-7, KJV:  5 Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth:  and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth.  6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.  7 But they like men have transgressed the covenant:  there have they dealt treacherously against me.  Hebrews 2:  1-4, KJV:  1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.  2 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;  3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him;  4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Phil A” (Level 6 with 20,487 points, a member since April 16, 2008) posted the following:


Why were Lot and his family * spared by God or the Angels before the destruction of Sodom ?

Just wondering ?

ps, * Well his wife would have been spared if she had not have looked around , and turned into a pillar of salt.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents.  And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together:  for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.  And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram’s cattle and the herdmen of Lot’s cattle:  and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land.  And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren.  Is not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me:  if thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left.  And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar.  Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east:  and they separated themselves the one from the other.  Abram dwelled in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom.  But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly.  (Genesis 13:  5-13, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Judgment Against Sodom? (04/10/2015); Remembering Lot’s Wife? (11/04/2014); Sinless Until Advent? (11/05/2014); Lot and the Angels (05/04/2014); Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014)


“Phil A”, here are some points that further explain the lessons on salvation provided through the account of Lot visited by angels:

(1.)  The Covenant of Circumcision.  Lot had been a member of Abraham’s household; and worshiped with the one who is called “the Friend of GOD.”  The household for nomads included spouse, children, relatives, and servants; and could number in the hundreds or thousands.  They would travel together like a compete village, and even a city.  When lot and his household of perhaps 2-3000 separated from that of Abraham, a longstanding relationship with divinity was already in place.

(2.)  The Intercession of Abraham.  When GOD revealed the divine intent to investigate, and bring judgment against the sins of Sodom and other cities in that same region, Abraham made an appeal that exception be made for the righteous who might be there.  GOD agreed that, for the sake of ten righteous persons, all the cities would be shown divine mercy

(3.)  Redemption.  When Lot welcomed the angelic ambassadors, his character and nature became manifest as being from GOD through hospitality.  His authority as head of his family and household allowed Lot to declare a  commitment to lay down his life—even also the lives and virginity of his daughters—to protect at all cost those who had come into his home.  Therein, Lot is to be seen as offering himself as a sacrifice that would otherwise be destroyed in fire upon an holy altar.  A redemption price is paid that allows the offering to be spared, and to serve  instead as a living sacrifice.

There are many other ideas that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and made a part of ones own spiritual development, here.  (For example, (4.)  The Sin of Sodom.  Many mistakenly think the sins were homosexuality and rape.  Lot showed himself contrary to the people of Sodom.  See more at 2nd Peter 2:  6-9, King James Version (KJV):  6 And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;  7 And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:  8 (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)  9 The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:  Also, Ezekiel 16:  48-50, KJV:  48 As I live, saith the Lord GOD, Sodom thy sister hath not done, she nor her daughters, as thou hast done, thou and thy daughters.  49 Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.  50 And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me:  therefore I took them away as I saw good.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/11/2013) What to Take Literally

The Bible and human awareness are topics today with more on forgiveness.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Secular Thinker - I’m back.” (Level 1 with 186 points, a member since February 28, 2013) posted the following:


Christians - Which parts of the Bible should I take literally?

I love how the Christians constantly state that all of the verses I attack as evidence for God being an evil tyrant, or making no sense whatsoever aren't to be taken literally, yet at the same time tell me to take the ones stating him to be a "loving and merciful" god as literal fact. Funny.


THE BATTLE AXE:  Not Even Sorry? (03/10/2013)—For all Christians, to bestow forgiveness is a duty (i.e., a necessary spiritual task that must be completed without regard to ones likes and dislikes, cost and personal sacrifice required, or the earning of payment and rewards).  Because forgiveness is always granted as a freely given gift, no one must abase themselves, beg, or endure disgrace to receive forgiveness. For many salvation begins in acknowledging and confessing ones need for forgiveness. The rage for a justice filled with human anger, darkness, “pay back”, venom and revenge must become a desire for godly charity, forbearance, pardon, peace, light and restoration.  For many salvation begins in acknowledging and confessing ones need for forgiveness.  The completion of ones mortality should also include calling forth and extending forgiveness to those who remain as survivors.  Forgiveness pertains to the ministry of salvation, therefore, higher issues than continuing and restoring trust within personal relationships are involved.  Aspects of righteous judgment must come into view, including balance, guilt, impartiality, mercy and thoroughness.  Yet, forgiveness is not to be regarded as a tool to alter and manipulate others so much as a sacred mechanism for further experience and revelation of Divine Person and Spirit.  The transformation of created beings from mortal and temporal to immortal and incorruptible demands longsuffering, repentance, sorrow for sins, and wrath against sin as well as forgiveness of others.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:  Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.  For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers:  but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.  And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?  But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts:  and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:  Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.  (1st Peter 3:  10-16, King James Version)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Wanting to Have Our Way (03/09/2013); Not Even Sorry? (03/10/2013); No Contradictions? (01/15/2013); Accomplished in Christ? (01/16/2013); Translation, Please… (01/11/2013); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013); Confusion 2013 (01/13/2013)


The challenge of the holy writings cannot be successfully met by relying solely upon academic logic, human reason and “secular thinking.”  The Bible is intended to impart divine content to created beings and living creatures, and all Scriptures use the gateways of awareness and consciousness to deposit spirit content from the person of GOD.  Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom and wrath against sin.  GOD is a spirit, and may only be known through spirit and actuality that we typically refer to as “truth.”

The processes of human mind go beyond thought, just as they go beyond “truth.”  Such mental operations as desire, doubt, fantasy, forgetting, imagination, lying, premonition, projection, recall and unbelief are aspects of mind, also.  The primary aspects of human spirit center neither upon thought, nor feeling (i.e., emotion).  Being and existence proceed from the action and presence of Divine Person and Spirit.  Because the flesh and form also determines consciousness in the created, many respond only to appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, craving for sexual contact), sense (e.g., hearing, seeing, touching), and the continuous changes we call “mind”.  Sin easily dominates self-will despite that sin is “no-thing” having carnal, material or spirit substance.  Like “anti-matter”, sin does not exist, and cannot be detected without devices provided by GOD.  Yet sin has direction, effect and presence opposing divine law, sacred order, and the continued existence of all that is created as well as the Creator.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, the Bible is a record of divine actions, performed among and through men.  A divine point of view is given us so that we see thousands of lives, shown over the course of thousands of years.  The Bible is a record detailing divine covenants, laws, priesthood, acceptable praises and prayers, promises, proclamations and prophesies.  The profound change in understanding required by readers of the Bible is so sweeping, we say, “You must be born again,” and “grow up” again (i.e., be  established in a new spiritual consciousness).  To correctly grasp the simplest points does require a mindset supplied by GOD through the Holy Spirit.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC