(11/22/2020) Explaining The Earlier Covenants

 The images of Abraham (left) and Jesus Christ (right) are shown together acknowledging the connection among the diverse covenants through Abraham, Moses, and Jesus Christ.

Covenant practices and signs are in view, today, responding to a question on the frequent discussions of circumcision that appear from the Apostle Paul. The early church was required to demonstrate that they were anchored in the sacred knowledge displayed among the temple elders and the Rabbis. Paul began his apostolic ministry within the synagogues by appealing to believers among those who regularly attended. At first, belief in Christ was put forth as only a further expression of GOD’s covenant promises granted to the Jews. However, many of those who escaped from captivity and exile became grounded in tradition, and were determined to restore and preserve the covenant of Moses along with the Torah as what earlier had been provided as the highest blessings from GOD. Circumcision that had been bestowed on Abraham and his household as a mark of covenant relationship was not correctly acknowledged by the time of Moses, nor was circumcision uniformly practiced when divinity appeared on the earth using human form and life-process as Jesus Christ. Christ received circumcision as part of his inheritance and authentic humanity. Even so, circumcision was never intended by divinity as an outward mark of approval and consecration, or as a mark of disgrace and humiliation. Authentic sanctification (being set apart to serve divinity) appears by conformity to covenant law and sacred practices (e.g., observing the Sabbath; tithing; using the prayer shawl); and while circumcision is to be a visible declaration of commitment to relationship with divinity, a man will display his circumcision to fewer than 100 others during his entire lifetime (e.g., companions, doctors, family, etc.). It is written: Romans 4: 8-16, King James Version (KJV): 8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: 12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. 14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: 15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “ShalloWhale” (Level 6 with 18,373 points) posted the following:

Why is circumcision mentioned so much in the Bible?

Why was it so important that the Apostle Paul kept referring to it?

Updated 1 hour ago:

Is it a sloppy intrusion by male culture into a sacred text?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death. Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? and the prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself? Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God: Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham? Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. (John 8: 52-58, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Made Perfect By Divinity (11/10/2020); The Foreskin And Circumcision? (10/13/2020); Do We Follow Paul? (10/01/2020); Godliness Characterizes Authentic Humanity (02/06/2020); Heaven Speaks Using Mankind (09/15/2019); No Wall of Partition (07/05/2019); Scripture Has No Ethnicity (05/27/2019)

“Shallowhale”, your focus is on the flesh, not the Spirit. Just as Christian believers today are to share with skeptics and sinners who seek new lives that release them from the operations of sin, the Apostle Paul was repeatedly challenged to explain what appeared as hidden connections among the operations of divinity through Jesus Christ and the earlier proclamations, sacred promises, and prophecies from GOD. Circumcision was granted to Abraham as a visible sign of covenant relationship between immortal, incorruptible, unseen divinity and mankind. GOD was to be acknowledged as more than an abstract Creator and Maker; divinity was to exist in continuing relationship through spirit process and substance imparted from the makeup of GOD that included balance, commitment, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, mercy for those found guilty in judgment, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The covenant of Moses that followed some 400 years later provided the divine presence through sacred law, identity as a sacred nation, and as a divine instrument to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of GOD. By focusing on the law as the foremost of all divine blessing, many mistakenly rejected and refused to receive and embody an indwelling spirit that would remove the obstacles continued by finite flesh (e.g., appetite; mind; sensation; self-will (willpower) ). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Jeremiah 31: 31-37, King James Version (KJV): 31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: 32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD: 33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34 And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. 35 Thus saith the LORD, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; The LORD of hosts is his name: 36 If those ordinances depart from before me, saith the LORD, then the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before me for ever. 37 Thus saith the LORD; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith the LORD.

(2.) Galatians 3: 16-18, KJV: 16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. 18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

(3.) Galatians 3: 26-29, KJV: 26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Hebrews 10: 28-29, KJV: 28 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: 29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:26 AM, November 22, 2020 @ https://oneway2day.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/abraham-jesus-sm.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20201122033207AAB3Y1P

(11/06/2019) Vessels Filled With Righteousness

The image displays the hand as the instrument of divinity and sacred law (written with the finger of God).

Today, reply is on whether the righteousness of GOD is a result from divinity being constrained by their own law. Divine law exists as the handiwork of GOD emanated as a fruit and product of Spirit. Meaning, substance, and value within the law make immutable, incorruptible divinity knowable, known, accessible and approachable. Just as GOD used an audible voice at Horeb to proclaim the covenant law to those assembled with Moses, the personhood of divinity has appeared through the law written by the hand of GOD, and demonstrated in the life of Spirit Incarnate, Jesus Christ. Created beings and living creatures are to serve as vessels of divinity where the law resides within the makeup of their awareness and self-will (willpower). It is written: John 10: 27-30, King James Version (KVJ): 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and my Father are one. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Climate Realist” (Level 7 with 31,353 points) posted the following:

Is God righteous because the rules are His rules?

Is God righteous because the rules are His rules and, of course He follows His rules?

Or, is God righteous because there are rules that apply, even to God, that He follows?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. (Revelation 20: 4-6, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Aspects of Full Righteousness (11/01/2019); Unseen And Inexplicable Power (10/16/2019); Violating Commandments On Love? (10/13/2019); Through Faith And Patience (10/02/2019); The Father Is Greater (10/01/2019); Self-will Is Not Law (08/23/2019); That Not Of Yourselves (08/13/2019)

“Climate Realist”, it is not unreasonable to believe that the divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) act in accordance to the law they together have put forth for created beings and living creatures, for things unseen, and for the material universe. Many mature Christians will agree that the righteousness existing within sacred law is the expression of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Divinity is accounted as righteous on the basis of their completeness and wholeness of sacred content; their fullness of life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; word); their integrity of personhood in relationship; and their emanation and putting forth of sacred substance (e.g., faith, glory, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin). Because the seed (divine DNA; judgments; proclamations, promises, prophecies) from divinity are filled with righteousness, the offspring, his plantings, and their fruit when ripe become vessels filled with righteousness. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Deitrick Haddon:

(1.) Psalms 1: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. 5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

(2.) Matthew 7: 15-20, KJV: 15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

(3.) John 15: 5-12, KJV: 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. 9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. 10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. 11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. 12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oc4Wkkg-cxU.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:28 PM, November 05, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/a4/42/82/a44282d8fe17685a3858deed1d361c5e.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/01/2019) Aspects of Full Righteousness

Today, reply is to the challenge that the ministry of John the Baptist centered on water baptism, repentance and sin, rather than exhorting men to have faith (indwelling spirit) that the promises of GOD to Abraham are being fulfilled. When baptized by John, Jesus was not declared free of sin so much as Jesus was proclaimed the Son of the Father, and the lawful primary heir of GOD. As the Son of Man, Christ is heir to all the divine promises from Adam to Abraham, to Moses, to David. From the time of Adam, there have been sacred demands and requirements (i.e., the law) with righteousness appearing as forbearance. In addition to the righteousness within ordinances, principles, and statutes, there are the righteousness for outcomes of tribunal, the resolution of dispute, and the settlement of conflict. Also, there are righteousness of accountability, agreements, division of labor, sacred gifts, guidance, hope (expectation), and promises. It is written: Galatians 3: 16-19, King James Version (KJV): 16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. 18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise. 19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Norine” (Level 1 with 68 points) posted the following:

What rigtheousness did Jesus fulfill with a "Repentance; believing that Jesus was coming" water baptism (Matt 3:15; Acts 19:4)?

Updated 17 mins ago:

JOHN'S BAPTISM

IS DEFINED AS ONE OF "REPENTANCE; BELIEVING THAT JESUS WAS COMING" IN ACTS 19:4.

JESUS SAID IN MATTHEW 3:15 THAT HE WAS BEING WATER BAPTIZED BY JOHN

"TO FULFILL ALL RIGHTEOUSNESS."

WHAT RIGHTEOUSNESS DID HE FULFILL SEEING THAT HE WAS "SINLESS" (HEB 4:15) AND DIDN'T NEED TO "REPENT" NOR DID HE NEED TO BELIEVE THAT HE WAS COMING?"

WHAT WAS THIS "RIGTHEOUSNESS THAT JESUS FULFILLED" (MATTHEW 3:15)?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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. (Romans 8: 3-5 , KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Righteousness Of GOD (10/25/2019); Divine Fullness Is Spirit (09/11/2019); Life Because of Righteousness (08/29/2019); Why Punishment After Death? (11/23/2018); Repentance Among Christian Believers (07/06/2018); Jesus Came To Fulfill? (01/16/2018); Thoughts On The Commandments (06/27/2017)

“Norine”, law containing prohibitions and sanctions that must be observed by created beings and living creatures for them to have continuing relationship with divinity did not begin with Moses and the Ten Commandments (we also say, the covenant law; the Decalogue ; the Oral Law; the law written on tables of stone by the finger of GOD). Divine order that gave direction, form, and lasting purpose to heaven, the earth, and all Creation was put forth as multiple expressions of sacred commitment, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign will that were manifested and operated as law. The character, process, and substance of divinity define and describe all things emanated and put forth by the Godhead that may display existence, life, personhood, the image of GOD, sacred seed (we also say, divine DNA), Christ-likeness, and the lasting imprint of divine fullness. Inseparable aspects of divine totality and wholeness include faith, forbearance, holiness, hope, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Where forgiveness, love, mercy, and reconciliation are not proclaimed by the law as are penalty and punishment, their source and origin are no less the operations and substance of GOD. Where the integrity and full righteousness of divinity at first were hidden and invisible, the word of GOD (we also say, breath; spirit; utterance) has appeared among men on the earth through active presence, correction, divinity Incarnate, promise, prophecy, reconciliation, and impartial judgment; and will also be manifest as the second death. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Wintley Phipps:

(1.) Isaiah 51: 6-8, King James Version (KJV): 6 Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look upon the earth beneath: for the heavens shall vanish away like smoke, and the earth shall wax old like a garment, and they that dwell therein shall die in like manner: but my salvation shall be for ever, and my righteousness shall not be abolished. 7 Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings. 8 For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.

(2.) Romans 3: 21, KJV: 21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

(3.) Romans 4: 13, KJV: 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

(4.) Romans 8: 4, KJV: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

(5.) Philippians 3: 9, KJV: 9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, (6.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEU0LrBemek.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 6:45 AM, November 01, 2019 @ https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CwJjLxDUAAAFCsx.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/19/2019) The Sower Went Forth

Jesus Christ shown as The Sower imparting divine seed

Today, reply is on judgment, the sowing of divine seed, and the selection of those who receive revelation. The principle described by the divine operations of election also are spoken of as divine prerogative, grace, eternal purpose, inheritance, promise, and the sovereign will of GOD. Thus, divine offspring, heirs, and the seed of GOD appear in the earth. It is written: Romans 9: 8-16, KJV: 8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. 9 For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. 10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) 12 It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. 13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. 14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. 15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Susie” (Level 3 with 1,335 points, a member since June 09, 2018) posted the following:

Why does God only reveal himself to those who already believe? Why do Christians say you must already believe the Bible is true....?

to interpret it correctly?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 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. (Romans 8: 5-9, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: That Not Of Yourselves (08/13/2019); Let Us Reason Together (08/07/2019); Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Believers Must Become “Ripe” (09/02/2018); Eating and Drinking Christ? (07/03/2017); A Rebellious Fig Tree? (12/21/2016); In Relationship With Divinity? (08/16/2016)

“Susie”, the Bible teaches that all men do not have faith that is a spirit substance within the full makeup of GOD; and all men have not believed the Gospel. Most Christians understand that GOD is exalted because he has put forth all things having consciousness, existence, and life. His authority, knowledge, power, and wisdom are that of one having dominion, and ownership. GOD is one who reigns and rules (we say, one who is sovereign); and has put forth law that expresses his will. Such believers acknowledge that GOD continues a process to assign value, determine what will be the duration of things as well as what things will be preserved forever to serve immortal divinity. In this, GOD is to be understood as one and who makes immutable decisions, and final dispositions as judge.

It is an unchanging purpose of divinity (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) that men and women exist without interruption (e.g., condemnation because of sin; death; mortality; sleep). Humanity is to be a life companion with GOD who is Spirit, who is invisible, and who is immortal. The deeds and works of the living are examined for the sacred quality, process, and substance that must be in place as the fitness and readiness of created beings and living creatures to be in an ongoing relationship with GOD. There must be possibilities for communication, exchange, and interaction that display a meaningful connection to GOD; and inseparable aspects of the image of (we say, Christ-likeness; godliness; divine DNA; holy seed) must appear. Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

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

2. Luke 8: 4-8, KJV: 4 And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: 5 A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. 6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. 7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. 8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

3. Luke 8: 11-15, KJV: 11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. 14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. 15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Psalms 50: 14-23, KJV: 14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High: 15 And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. 16 But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth? 17 Seeing thou hatest instruction, and casteth my words behind thee. 18 When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. 19 Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. 20 Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son. 21 These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. 22 Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. 23 Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:38 AM, August 18, 2019 @ https://blog.emergingscholars.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/sower-went-out-e1528725109248.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/15/2019) Are We Becoming gods?

Today, the reply addresses the ongoing transformation of mankind to exist eternally as a life companion to divinity. At the coming of Jesus Christ to harvest the earth of those belonging to him that are mature/ripe for eternal life, the permanent change will be completed in the twinkling of an eye whereby mankind will no longer be corruptible or mortal, and will endure along with divinity forever. Men on the earth anointed and endowed to serve as divine priests, prophets, judges and kings are to be obeyed and respected as the sons of man (Adam), and children of the Most High. Thus, it is written: Luke 3: 38, King James Version (KJV): 38 Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God. Also, Deuteronomy 14: 1-2, : 1 Ye are the children of the LORD your God: ye shall not cut yourselves, nor make any baldness between your eyes for the dead. 2 For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth. Exodus 4: 22-24 KJV: 22 And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn: 23 And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Fellow Christians: why would someone say the Bible says people are gods and ard becoming gods?

Please clear this up because that sounds wrong to me.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Wherefore David blessed the LORD before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. (1^st Chronicles 29: 10-13, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Keeping Of Relics (04/17/2019); Flesh As Divine Vessels? (01/14/2018); The Servitude of Angels (08/28/2017); The GOD Of All? (01/08/2016); No Other gods? (08/14/2015); Able to Become Gods? (01/11/2014); Why Christians Pray for Others (01/12/2014); The Image of GOD? (10/10/2013); Embodied Afterlife? (10/11/2013)

“Anonymous”, some of the most challenging doctrines and teachings within the Christian system of belief are involved, here. Several distinctions and meanings have to be separated to avoid spiritual confusion. In the holy writings, “gods” are (1) man-made objects mistakenly believed to contain divine persons, to have authority and power, or that may act having dominion in the natural world; therefore graven images and other objects (we say, idols) are reverenced and worshiped to gain benefits, favor, and privilege. To be a “god” means (2) to have the same attributes, authority, knowledge, power and privilege that describe the Creator. Also, “gods” are (3) vessels of divine seed and spirit substance from the makeup of divinity; therefore, having “life essence” (breath; “DNA”; spirit; word) from the divine fullness (we say, the Creator; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit), created beings and living creatures may be called “gods” meaning the offspring, the sons and daughters, the children of GOD. Mankind was created to exist (4) as a companion (“god”) to immortal, incorruptible divinity, and therefore, was to endure as eternal, godly, and perfect. Additionally, (5) where men on the earth display the “image of God” (inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of divinity such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, wrath against sin) they are accounted as heirs to divinity, joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, and the new creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Genesis 3: 1-6, King James Version (KJV); 1 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. 6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

2. Galatians 3: 26-29, KJV: 26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

3. Isaiah 63: 16, KJV: 16 Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 1^st John 3: 7-11, KJV: 7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. 11 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/10/2019) Abraham In Divine Judgment

Today, reply is on the divine revelation received by Abraham, grace manifest as forgiveness and promise, and the Patriarch’s place in divine judgment. Divinity is being made knowable, known, accessible, and approachable through sacred law, promise, prophecy and other utterances (we say, breath; spirit; the Word). Created beings and living creatures are to receive and operate in terms of imparted spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, hope, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Thus, the final judgment that will occur to complete the cleansing and transformation of mankind, does not center on deeds and works alone; and final judgment is determined on the basis of the sacred content that has appeared within the living. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “anony” (Level 2 with 349 points, a member since December 20, 2015) posted the following:

Christians: Is Abraham going to hell for not believing in the mysterious Trinity?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: (Romans 4: 8-14, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Sacred Characters, Not Fictional (12/12/2018); Built Upon The Spirit Blessed (11/29/2018); Assurances Are Provided (09/19/2018); The Divinity Of Christ? (06/14/2018); Abraham Demonstrates Spiritual Growth (05/30/2018); Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); Thoughts On Divine Personhood (12/07/2017); Yet In My Flesh... (06/07/2016); Living In The Light? (01/18/2015)

“anony”, among mature Christian believers it is understood that Abraham was granted a covenant relationship with divinity, and did satisfy all the demands placed upon him as the Friend of God. Living and traveling as a nomad, Abram commanded a household made up of his own family with the families of friends and servants. His community numbered in the thousands; and everywhere they went they demonstrated divine order and faith in the true GOD (as would evangelists). Abraham completed righteous works such as establishing wells of water and altars acknowledging Jehovah. Abraham’s error and presumption—by marrying Hagar in order to fulfill the prophecy of GOD that Sarah would bear a son through whom all the earth would be blessed—was forgiven him, and fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. Abraham is acknowledged, exalted and uplifted as the Father of the Faithful, because he behaved and walked correctly within the light that he was granted.

The revelation of GOD to make divinity known and approachable to Abraham was not exactly the same as that granted through the covenant with Moses (also called, the law). Even so, the promises to Abraham were intended to benefit all mankind, and have been continued using human flesh, divine law, and sacred spirit. In addition to circumcision, prophecy and sacred visions, Abraham was granted priesthood and privilege to serve through intercession and mediation in the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah. Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings:

1. Genesis 18: 17-19, King James Version (KJV): 17 And the LORD said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do; 18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? 19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

2. Romans 6: 16-18, KJV: 16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

3. Galatians 3: 6-7, KJV: 6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. 7 Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.

4. Isaiah 63: 16, KJV: 16 Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Galatians 3: 14-18, KJV: 14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 15 Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man’s covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto. 16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. 18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/08/2018) Challenged To Explain Resurrection

Today, the reply is on explaining the details of divine resurrection from death. Salvation from GOD that acknowledges the demand for, yet, circumvents death among the living is accomplished through divine operations whereby there is a separation and rejoining of flesh and spirit. The course of eternal life now may be accounted as uninterrupted through the inclusion of a pause or rest (we say, sleep). A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “mathdad” (Level 1 with 173 points, a member since May 24, 2012) posted the following:

Resurrection of the Dead?

Explain the resurrection. What happens in the grave? We are destroyed by worms. We turn to dust. Cremation destroys the body. No one has been resurrected after years of death. So, explain the resurrection, if you can. The Bible talks about two resurrections:

1. Resurrection of the saved

2. Resurrection of the lost

Tell me, how does dust become a brand new, resurrected body?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words. (1^st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Fulfillment of Proclamation (06/01/2018); The Elimination of Death? (05/13/2018); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); Christ Is The Firstborn (12/26/2017); Bereavement, Death and Suffering (11/10/2017); About Revelation not Punishment? (11/25/2016); Ghosts (09/02/2012); About Conversion (09/03/2012)

“mathdad”, your question on resurrection of the human body as a process carried out and performed by GOD requires a detailed description for the out-workings of authority, sacred power, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign will that appeared in the Creation, and will attend the Advent of Jesus Christ (we say, the harvest; the Rapture; the Second Coming). The operations of divinity among developing Christian believers include imparting spirit substance from the makeup of the Creator that enables existence and life as well as continuing communication, exchange, and interaction (we say, ongoing relationship). Inseparable spirit content from GOD is required when sharing sacred knowledge in place of finite secular knowledge. Included must be faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

While the process of divinity through Jesus Christ is one of disclosure and revelation, there remain many divine mysteries and secrets that never will be exposed to created beings and living creatures. Where answers may appear to be lacking information there often is no need because the process of sharing truth is by acceptance, affirmation, faith, and trust. The living are to apprehend divinity by existing and by living, rather than by death, dying, ignorance, or ungodliness. Becoming “born again” grants sinners a fresh endowment of Spirit from GOD that will serve as a seed for their growth as offspring of GOD who will eventually display commitment, discernment, fellowship, obedience to divine law, ministry, the fulfillment of promise and prophecy, reverence, unselfish service, and the endurance of hardship and suffering.

Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings:

(1.) Deuteronomy 29: 29, King James Version (KJV): 29 The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 15: 12-23, KJV: 12 Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 15 Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. 16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.

(3.) 1^st Corinthians 15: 35-44, KJV: 35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? 36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: 37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38 But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. 40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43 It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Isaiah 55: 10-11, KJV: 10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/25/2018) When Speaking Of Christlikeness

Today, reply is on language to correctly describe the transformations of body and mind that must occur for each Christian believer.  Doubting in the manner of the Apostle Thomas is not to be commended; however, believing, praising and acknowledging Christ as “my GOD” and “my Lord,” as did Thomas, are not to be dismissed.  More than simply fitting in with others, leaving the past behind, seeking self-improvement, or “turning over a new leaf,” repentant sinners are to strive to become Christ-like.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “Doubting Like Thomas” (Level 7 with 78,023 points, a member since May 25, 2011) posted the following:


Why does "Let Jesus into your HEART!" sound like a nice invitation while "Let Jesus into your BRAIN!" sounds like a parasitic infestation?After all, the BRAIN is the organ which makes most of the decisions.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Those Apt To Teach? (06/20/2018); Changed And Made Christ-like? (06/19/2018); Self-Will And Christian Integrity (06/11/2018); What Divine Salvation Requires (05/15/2018); Accepting Christ, Accepting Change (10/20/2017); Acorns Become Oak Trees? (02/09/2017); Plantings of the Lord (02/10/2017); Become Like Jesus Christ? (10/27/2016)


“Doubting Like Thomas,” the goal of every sinner who returns to divinity through Jesus Christ eventually must become to acquire and display the image of GOD that Jesus revealed by appearing in human form, and ministering on the earth (we say, by his Incarnation).  It is inappropriate and unsuitable to speak of Jesus as only being a man in the flesh, the Son of Man (Adam), and a “biological specimen” as though the personhood he shared was only carnal, material, and social.  The sinner must undergo a permanent transformation of his own essential makeup that is so all-inclusive and complete, we do not merely say, “from head to toe”, we say, You must be born again!  The inborn spirit must die, be buried, and become resurrected, so to speak; and the sinner enters into a rebirth containing divine seed.

Those containing the new seed are “born again,” and become developing believers who must “grow up again” and become mature/ripe by meeting the same life challenges, “growing pains,” hardships, and even sufferings as others on the earth.  However, these believers are set apart (we say, dedicated; sanctified) because their fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of divinity enables them to exist as sons and daughters of GOD, joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, and those whom the Savior will receive as his harvest from the earth at the Advent (we also say, his appearing; the Rapture; the Second Coming).

Apprehending divinity and becoming Christ-like requires multiple streams of discovery, gradual growth, perseverance, sacred practice, and unselfish service.  How we think and speak must express that we are a new creation through Jesus.  Thus, believers are encouraged to use meanings and understandings that will acknowledge and strengthen their own and the consciousness in others of the divine presence, the crucial workings of the Holy Spirit, and the interactions among the inseparable, unseen aspects of GOD they have now received.  Included are faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Developing believers are less like to use such words as “the heart” that describes emotion, deep thoughts, and sentiment; or “the mind” that speaks to attitudes, intelligence, logic, carnal reason, and critical thinking.  It is more correct to apply discernment that acknowledges divinity as the origin and source for life, and that recognizes and responds to spirit substance deposited from GOD within events, messages, oneself, other persons, the holy writings, etc.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Isaiah 55:  6-12, King James Version (KJV):  6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:  7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts:  and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.  8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.  9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.  10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:  11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth:  it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.  12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace:  the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

(2.)  Jeremiah 17:  5-10, KJV:  5 Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.  6 For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.  7 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.  8 For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.  9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked:  who can know it?  10 I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.

(3.)  Philippians 2:  5-11, KJV:  5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:  6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:  7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:  8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.  9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:  10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;  11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

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

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC