(12/25/2019) Born Is The King

A depiction of the herald angels proclaiming the birth of Jesus to shepherds on the earth.

Today, reply is on the origin of guardian angels, and the appearance of angels in prophecy and the holy writings. In addition to angels who served as heralds proclaiming the birth of Jesus to bring peace between heaven and the earth, with goodwill to men, angels appear in the Scriptures as gatekeepers of Eden, guides, caretakers, witnesses to the acts of GOD, and divine agents who fulfill the word of promise and prophecy serving as the presence of divine fullness. An important account of divine protection by angels appears in the Second Book of Kings. It is written: 2^nd Kings 6: 15-17, King James Version (KJV): 15 And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? 16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. 17 And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Desiree” (Level 6 with 2,983 points) posted the following:

Is the concept of guardian angels pagan in origin?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared. Beware of him, and obey his voice, provoke him not; for he will not pardon your transgressions: for my name is in him. But if thou shalt indeed obey his voice, and do all that I speak; then I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries. For mine Angel shall go before thee, and bring thee in unto the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Canaanites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites: and I will cut them off. Thou shalt not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do after their works: but thou shalt utterly overthrow them, and quite break down their images. (Exodus 23: 20-24, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: “Sneak Previews” Of Heaven (09/16/2019); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); GOD Protects the Faithful (12/19/2017); Lower Than The Angels? (09/12/2017); When the Donkey Speaks? (11/03/2016); Lot and the Angels (05/04/2014); Expulsion from Eden (05/05/2014)

“Desiree”, as you know, angels are created beings and living creatures who are not to be worshiped by mankind. Angels are neither mortal (as mankind), nor immortal as divinity (only GOD is immortal). Angels have duration and existence through divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Here are some teachings on the Son of GOD who would appear on the earth and the angels that use language from the Bible along with a music ministry selection from the Choir of King’s College (Cambridge, England):

(1.) Hebrews 1: 1-9, King James Version (KJV): 1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: 4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. 5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? 6 And again, when he bringeth in the first begotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him. 7 And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. 8 But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. 9 Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

(2.) Psalms 91: 9-16, KJV: 9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; 10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. 11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. 12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. 13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. 14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. 15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

(3.) Revelation 19: 9-10, KJV: 9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God. 10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellow-servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

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

Image downloaded 9:52 PM, December 24, 2019 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzM5SGoAKd9J_bA6MtJ3iM0nx1EVtqJxYVtMF7ScCJqtev5JDNTbQxc9tXLrdfUgq3ahCeosGUZoSm64rWkAdHDLAh_BgvrzvJxgMxkXff9-k93DPQNA445B7ZT9hZq_PLRTNzGpMWx5jJ/s1600/angels.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/09/2016) Sheep of His Pasture

Focus, today, is upon the language appearing throughout the holy writings that describes the people of GOD as “sheep”.  To be labeled as sheep or servants of GOD in the Bible is by no means intended as condemnation or insult; and the ownership by GOD of mankind and all Creation are to be proclaimed as are his majesty and sovereignty.  With the divine response to the fall of Adam, sheep became inseparable from salvation through provisions for atonement, expiation, and remission of sins by using blood from offerings and sacrifices; by GOD introducing inheritance among mankind that includes duty, priesthood, prophecy, and sacred knowledge as well as by Deity bestowing divine gifts upon those who continually display humility, love, meekness, obedience, and zeal.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Hercules” (Level 1 with 3 points, a member since May 21, 2013) posted the following:

Theists and atheists, is there a problem with people happily considering themselves to be 'sheep'? Why or why not?

Update: Of course I mean in the proverbial, figurative sense, not the literal sense

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD.  I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick:  but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.  And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.  Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet?  And as for my flock, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet; and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet.  Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD unto them; Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle.  Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad;  Therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and cattle.  And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd.  And I the LORD will be their God, and my servant David a prince among them; I the LORD have spoken it.  (Ezekiel 34:  15-24, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Called Slaves by GOD? (02/10/2016); An Eternal Inheritance? (06/26/2016); Called To Be Servants? (11/25/2015); The Lamb of GOD (08/19/2015); The Sheep Who Lost Their Way? (11/18/2014); Restoring The Lost? (11/19/2014); Teachings on Judgment (06/06/2013); Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013)

“Hercules”, for most mature Christian believers being called “sheep” who belong to “the Good Shepherd” is thought of as a high privilege.  Keep in mind that during their more than 400-year sojourn among the Egyptians, Joseph and his brothers as Hebrews, and the house of Jacob were set apart as much by their despised occupation as keepers of livestock as by their ethnicity and family ties.  The bias, discrimination, exaggerated pride, and prejudice shown by the Egyptians further set Jacob apart as sanctified to GOD, and served as a shield and wall separating his people in a place of widespread spiritual confusion.  Because the inborn instinct within sheep makes them congregate and group together with quietness and simplicity, large flocks of sheep may be managed with relatively little manpower.  While rams within a flock will dominate all the others, sheep also are capable of distinguishing the individual humans who regularly come among them, and respond as if in a personal relationship (i.e., like pets).  Of all living creatures, a lamb was chosen to bear the wrath of GOD against the first pair (Adam and Eve); and the sentence of death required by divine law was brought against a docile and harmless substitute (we say, “an innocent”).  With this in view, the same Good Shepherd, is also the Lamb of GOD whose blood and body are provided for atonement and propitiation of sin.  Consider how some of this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Genesis 3:  21-24, King James Version (KJV):  21 Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.  22 And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil:  and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever:  23 Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken.  24 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.

(2.)  Genesis 46:  31-34, KJV:  31 And Joseph said unto his brethren, and unto his father’s house, I will go up, and shew Pharaoh, and say unto him, My brethren, and my father’s house, which were in the land of Canaan, are come unto me;  32 And the men are shepherds, for their trade hath been to feed cattle; and they have brought their flocks, and their herds, and all that they have.  33 And it shall come to pass, when Pharaoh shall call you, and shall say, What is your occupation?  34 That ye shall say, Thy servants’ trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers:  that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

(3.)  Ezekiel 34:  30-31, KJV:  30 Thus shall they know that I the LORD their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord GOD.  31 And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord GOD.

(4.)  John 1:  29-34, KJV:  29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.  30 This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me:  for he was before me.  31 And I knew him not:  but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.  32 And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.  33 And I knew him not:  but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.  34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.

(5.)  John 10:  11-16, KJV:  11 I am the good shepherd:  the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.  12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth:  and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.  13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.  14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.  15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father:  and I lay down my life for the sheep.  16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold:  them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (6.)  1st Peter 5:  2-4, KJV:  2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;  3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.  4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/13/2015) Was David a “Good” Man?

Today, King David of Israel is described as a figure in Scripture who provides multiple examples of ongoing divine processes for the salvation of mankind.  Instead of labeling David as “good”, it is probably more correct to speak of David as “Joe Average” and an “everyman ordinary person” like Job, who depicts intimate relationship with GOD as “chosen”,  “forgiven”, “just” (we say, justified by GOD) and “redeemed”.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using “Charlie” as their ID (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since September 06, 2013) posted the following:


What did David do in the Bible?

The song "Carry my soul" by Phil Wickham sings "chasing my heart like David did" What did David do to show us he was chasing God's heart? What were his qualities - was he a good man of God?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:   Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.  The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.  And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness.  And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot.  And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.  And afterward they desired a king:  and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.  And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave their testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.  Of this man’s seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:  (Acts 13:  16-23, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  GOD Speaking Through Songs? (11/01/2013); The Golden Age? (01/10/2013); Translation, Please… (01/11/2013); The Root of Jesse (01/03/2013); Newness of Spirit? (01/04/2013); The Firstborn, Higher than Kings? (12/18/2012); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012); The Priesthood of Kings (10/17/2012); Childlike Faith (10/18/2012)


“Charlie”, Christians are taught to understand that only GOD is “good”.  Even so, here are a few points to consider that are important for correct knowledge of the Bible record that shows how GOD is revealing divinity to mankind:

(1.)  David was a divine instrument used by GOD to demonstrate the process and workings of divinity such as anointing, forbearance, forgiveness, incarnation, judgment, praise, promise, repentance, and sanctification.  David established practices and standards that determined the course of both sacred and secular history for Israel.

(2.)  David was used in roles as a brother; a son; a caretaker of livestock (we say, herder, pastor, shepherd); a composer of hymns, liturgy, psalms and sacred music; a covenant partner; an heir of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; a champion, a giant-slayer, a hero, and a leader of battles; a therapist; an adopted son of a king; a husband and son-in-law; a friend; a companion to a prince; a fugitive; a marauder; a king and founder of a royal dynasty; a judge; a parent; a patriarch; an adulterer; a murderer; a mourner; an High Priest who established the course for service by the Levites within the Tabernacle; the one who provided the initial materials and plans for the Temple; a prophet and divine spokesperson; a sinner; an ancestor of Jesus Christ; and the father who reigned as king at the same time his son (Solomon) reigned as king.  The life of David was to depict the operations of faith in youth, adulthood, and even old age. 

(3.)  Unlike Adam and Eve who abandoned GOD when tempted and disgraced through the operations of sin, David repeatedly returns to GOD through praise, prayer and submission.  David brings into view aspects of salvation that include atonement, divine grace, joy, the attainment of perfection by continuing growth, rebirth, and permanent change.

(4.)  David suffers in spite of his fame, his military genius, his physical prowess as a warrior, his skill as a monarch and political figure, his wealth.  David would endure conflict, conspiracy, betrayal, disrespect, and civil war, the loss of his favorite son, in addition to the death of an infant.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  While Saul was king of Israel, the Ark of the Testimony that served as the judgment seat and throne of GOD among the Israelites was captured by an enemy nation, and separated from the Tent of Meeting (we say, the Tabernacle).  The priesthood became cursed, and the use of objects from the regalia of the High Priest (ephod, Urim and Thummim) became awkward.  When David wanted counsel from GOD, he often relied upon seers who served as personal advisors.  Having built a palace for himself, David also burned with a desire to restore the Ark to Israel so it would be nearby, and would be maintained within an enduring house of GOD, and lasting place for his Holy Name.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/19/2014) Restoring The Lost?

Today, more is shared on the ministry of Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd who returns those who are lost to their fold.  Ministry to the lost further proclaims the divine mercy and righteousness displayed as divine judgment; and what begins as a focus exclusively upon Israel broadens to embrace the whole world.  The lost are those who at one time have been joined to divinity through covenant, inheritance, promise, revelation, or sacrifice.  In some cases, the lost have been scattered or driven away by GOD expressing wrath against sin.  In other cases, the lost are not those who are defiant, insolent, rebellious or scornful so much as they are those gullible, impulsive, naïve and susceptible.  Like Moses, who turned from the path as he was on his way home to get a closer look at a bush that seemed to be in flame, lost believers indulge curiosity, and become drawn away from sacred knowledge and fellowship among the faithful.  Unlike apostates and backsliders whose awareness and self-will are under the influence of sin, the lost have not set out to be separated from the congregation of believers.  The lost continue to desire and value communion, however, they want to be free of challenging elements and restrictions such as condemnation, discipline, doubts, duties, falsehood, fear, punishment, questions, suspicions, and uncertainties.  The work of Jesus Christ as Savior and the task of those who follow him has included restoring the lost by completely and correctly embracing them again.  The Gospel is an outreach to all having faith, yet, in need of spiritual correction and guidance, the scattered and otherwise disinherited.


THE BATTLE AXE:  The Sheep Who Lost Their Way? (11/18/2014)

Genesis 18:  20-26, KJV—And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous;  21 I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.  22 And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom:  but Abraham stood yet before the LORD.  23 And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked?  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.

Psalms 60:  1-4, KJV—O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again.  2 Thou hast made the earth to tremble; thou hast broken it:  heal the breaches thereof; for it shaketh.  3 Thou hast shewed thy people hard things:  thou hast made us to drink the wine of astonishment.  4 Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah.

Psalms 119:  175-176, KJV—Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me.  176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments.

Jeremiah 3:  12-14, KJV—Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the LORD; and I will not cause mine anger to fall upon you:  for I am merciful, saith the LORD, and I will not keep anger for ever.  13 Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the LORD thy God, and hast scattered thy ways to the strangers under every green tree, and ye have not obeyed my voice, saith the LORD.  14 Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you:  and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion:

Jeremiah 10:  20-21, KJV—My tabernacle is spoiled, and all my cords are broken:  my children are gone forth of me, and they are not:  there is none to stretch forth my tent any more, and to set up my curtains.  21 For the pastors are become brutish, and have not sought the LORD:  therefore they shall not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.

Jeremiah 30:  11-20, KJV—For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee:  though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet I will not make a full end of thee:  but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished.  12 For thus saith the LORD, Thy bruise is incurable, and thy wound is grievous.  13 There is none to plead thy cause, that thou mayest be bound up:  thou hast no healing medicines.  14 All thy lovers have forgotten thee; they seek thee not; for I have wounded thee with the wound of an enemy, with the chastisement of a cruel one, for the multitude of thine iniquity; because thy sins were increased.  15 Why criest thou for thine affliction? thy sorrow is incurable for the multitude of thine iniquity:  because thy sins were increased, I have done these things unto thee.  16 Therefore all they that devour thee shall be devoured; and all thine adversaries, every one of them, shall go into captivity; and they that spoil thee shall be a spoil, and all that prey upon thee will I give for a prey.  17 For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD; because they called thee an Outcast, saying, This is Zion, whom no man seeketh after.  18 Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring again the captivity of Jacob’s tents, and have mercy on his dwellingplaces; and the city shall be builded upon her own heap, and the palace shall remain after the manner thereof.  19 And out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry:  and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.  20 Their children also shall be as aforetime, and their congregation shall be established before me, and I will punish all that oppress them.

Jeremiah 50:  5-7, KJV—They shall ask the way to Zion with their faces thitherward, saying, Come, and let us join ourselves to the LORD in a perpetual covenant that shall not be forgotten.  6 My people hath been lost sheep:  their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains:  they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their restingplace.  7 All that found them have devoured them:  and their adversaries said, We offend not, because they have sinned against the LORD, the habitation of justice, even the LORD, the hope of their fathers.

Ezekiel 34:  31, KJV—And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord GOD.

Ezekiel 34:  11-12, KJV—For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out.  12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day.

Ezekiel 34:  15-25, KJV—I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD.  16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick:  but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.  17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.  18 Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet?  19 And as for my flock, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet; and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet.  20 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD unto them; Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle.  21 Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad;  22 Therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and cattle.  23 And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd.  24 And I the LORD will be their God, and my servant David a prince among them; I the LORD have spoken it.

John 10:  7-16, KJV—Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.  8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers:  but the sheep did not hear them.  9 I am the door:  by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.  10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy:  I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.  11 I am the good shepherd:  the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.  12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth:  and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.  13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.  14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.  15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father:  and I lay down my life for the sheep.  16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold:  them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.

Matthew 9:  35-38, KJV—And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.  36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.  37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;  38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

Matthew 10:  5-7, KJV—These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:  6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.  7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Matthew 15:  21-28, KJV—Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon.  22 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.  23 But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.  24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.  25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me.  26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to dogs.  27 And she said, Truth, Lord:  yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.  28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith:  be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

John 11:  47-54, KJV—Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.  48 If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him:  and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.  49 And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all,  50 Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.  51 And this spake he not of himself:  but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation;  52 And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad.  53 Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.  54 Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews; but went thence unto a country near to the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples.

Matthew 28:  16-20, KJV—Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.  17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him:  but some doubted.  18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.  19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:  20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:  and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

James 1:  1-3, KJV—James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.  2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;  3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

James 1:  13-15, KJV—Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God:  for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:  14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.  15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin:  and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

1st Peter 1:  1-3, KJV—Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,  2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ:  Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.  3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

1st Peter 2:  21-25, KJV—For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:  22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:  23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:  24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness:  by whose stripes ye were healed.  25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

Ephesians 2:  8-22, KJV—For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:  it is the gift of God:  9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.  10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.  11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;  12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:  13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.  14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;  15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;  16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:  17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.  18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.  19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;  20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;  21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:  22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

Luke 1:  50-52, KJV—And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.  51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.  52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.

Jude 1:  20-25, KJV—But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,  21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.  22 And of some have compassion, making a difference:  23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.  24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,  25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/18/2014) The Sheep Who Lost Their Way?

Today, some points are shared on the ministry of Jesus to “the lost.”  A “Yahoo! Answers” fighter using the ID “towwwdothello” (Level 6 with 24,423 points, a member since December 27, 2007) posted the following:


What did Jesus do with the sheep who lost their way?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him.  And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.  And he spake this parable unto them, saying,  What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?  And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.  And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.  I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.  Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?  And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.  Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.  (Luke 15:  1-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Both Lost and Found? (11/08/2014); Two Different Sides? (11/09/2014); A Relationship not Just Knowledge? (06/25/2013); Lost Without GOD? (06/26/2013); The Children, not the Dogs (03/17/2013); Why Jesus Must Be A Jew (03/18/2013)


“towwwdothello”, here are a few points you may have considered before:

(1.)  Those spoken of as “lost” in the holy writings started out and continue to be in a relationship where Jesus Christ is identified as their owner and shepherd, so to speak.  A separation has occurred whereby a “lost” believer is distanced from the flock (we say, other believers), from sacred knowledge, and from his proper place of duty, learning, nourishment, and service.

(2.)  Those whose awareness and self-will become dominated by sin enter into spiritual confusion where they are unable to discern correctly the spirit content of events, lessons, messages, etc.  In effect, they can no longer hear, recognize, and respond to the shepherd’s call.  Depending upon such finite tools as a compass (i.e., technology), intellect, philosophy, and science, believers forget GOD, and do not maintain focus upon the vital provisions from divinity.

(3.)  The condition of being “lost” pertains to the fullness and correctness for communion, exchanges, and interactions among and between believers as well as in ones relationship with divinity.  Those who left Egypt with Moses, and wandered for 40 years, were never “lost.”  GOD does not “lose track” of our physical location within the earth.  However, believers may become deprived of the authority, benefits and privileges of fellowship with divinity through separation that occurs because of a worldly lifestyle, irregular practice of private prayer, failure to maintain self-discipline, and refusing daily study to gain sacred knowledge.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Jesus came to recover the lost.  In addition to encouraging change and exhorting the people to repent (i.e., acknowledge their covenant promises, renew their commitment, and return to GOD), Jesus shared sacred comforts (e.g., cheer, cleansing, forbearance, forgiveness, healing, joy, love, wisdom), and proclaimed the kingdom of GOD.  The Savior served as a high priest who would make atonement for sin within the Sanctuary in heaven.  The “lost” were shown it is not GOD’s eternal purpose that they be abandoned, denied, destroyed, forgotten, ignored, oppressed, or rejected.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/24/2012) About the Star?

      The extraordinary star that appeared at the birth of Jesus, and the true miracle of Christmas are topics today. A “Yahoo Answers” writer using the ID “John” (Level 1 with 91 points, a member since December 19, 2012) posted the following:



About start and christ birth?

Hey,
I am a beliver in chirst and i am just stucked out at the concept of star in birth of christ... My question is how can star show the way to wise men about jesus birth??? As a chrstian i know it to my heart, but when ppl ask reagrding this theriotically i cannot do so....so help me out the facts how stars can show a man a way to certain place.Sorry if my question is worng inthe way i look...thank you..all glory to jesus :)



THE BATTLE AXE: The True Miracle (12/23/2012)—Christmas is celebrated as a time of social healing. Family gatherings provide unique opportunities for exchange, intimacy and sharing of emotional and psychological gifts that include affection, attention, companionship, forgiveness, reconciliation, and respect. To their parents, their caretakers, and teachers children still embody and symbolize angels, freedom, the future, goodness, happiness, innocence, and youth. For this reason, the true miracle of Christmas often seems exclusively intended for children. Exaggerations and misreading of Scripture can result in devastating idolatry and inordinate promotion of children (e.g., Psalm 127: 3 and James 1: 27, KJV). Given that children respond as flexible and teachable even when complex doctrines are introduced, the message of new life through Christ often is more quickly and correctly embraced by children. Our duty to love as sons and daughters of GOD is discharged only in part through children, family, friends and parents (Luke 6: 20-38, KJV). There also must be acceptance and commitment to GOD and Christ, the Holy Spirit, the host of heaven, with believers (and nonbelievers) everywhere. Celebrating a finite miracle of birth and the wonder of new life is not to be confused with divine grace and the eternal miracle of Christmas—new relationship to GOD for all mankind through Jesus Christ (Luke 2: 11-14 and John 1: 1-14, KJV).



THE GOLDEN ARROW: For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2nd Peter 1: 16-21, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The True Miracle (12/23/2012); Origins (01/20/2011); The Wise Men? (12/21/2010); Melchizedek? (12/22/2010); Things? (11/13/2010); Mealtime Grace (11/14/2010)



      Don’t be confused or distracted by the complexity and sophistication of today’s technology (fiber optics, GPS, satellite tracking, etc.). True, it often seems impossible to do without the man-made devices that are so impressive now, that did not exist then. However, the birth of Jesus was through an operation of Almighty GOD that embraced and employed all the various levels of existence. The birth of Jesus demonstrated divine authority over all Creation. Included were angelic beings, domestic animals and human beings; the emotions, motives, and thoughts of the living as well as clouds, darkness, light, wind, the sun, moon and stars.

      Correctly understood, GOD is a spirit, and cannot be described as having dimensions (e.g., depth, height, weight, width), form, human characteristics, shape and physical limits. The impossible appearance of GOD in human form as a baby must be accepted and understood as something brought to pass by a sovereign Person having absolute power, and unimpeachable righteousness. Faith, an aspect of the full makeup of GOD, must reside within those who believe, and operate upon and through human awareness before one may exist as a believer in sacred truth from GOD. Faith is divine substance and is inseparable from such other content as holiness, humility, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

      Initially, those we now call “wise men” (this may include the shepherds) were motivated like Moses, who took a break from his work to see a bush that burned without giving off ashes, or smoke (Exodus 3: 1-3, KJV). Simple curiosity, and other human reactions such as challenge, fear, pride and surprise were probably involved at the start. Continuous study of astronomy, current events and the holy writings influenced their thinking. As they gradually yielded to conviction, they acquired necessary levels of confidence, persistence and trust through increasing faith, just as we, today, must do.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, in those times evil—catastrophe, sudden and widespread change, upheaval)—was associated with the birth of conquering monarchs (see Isaiah 45: 7, KJV). Natural events such as comets, earthquakes, floods and meteor showers were carefully examined as being prophetic signs, and evidences that GOD, in fact, was active, fulfilling things proclaimed and promised through his word.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC