(12/11/2020) Both Existence and Life

 

Operations of GOD that establish rebirth, continuing relationship between divinity and mankind, and the resurrection to life from death are in view, today, along with divinity as the only origin for existence and life within mankind. In addition to life on the earth that results from animal behavior and sexuality life also appears through the operations of consecrated spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD. The life essence shared in sexual reproduction became altered responding to human transgression of sacred law and is not the same endowment of Spirit as that provided to the first male and female in their Creation. In the same way Adam as a living soul was created through divine process and sacred substance rather than finite, human sexual activity and reproduction, Jesus Christ came to the earth as an offspring of GOD through acts of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Incarnation is a divine use of human form and life-process that goes forward using substance imparted from the divine fullness. Men must endure a condition of mortality while on the earth, yet, mankind may receive inseparable aspects of Spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD through rebirth (death, burial, and resurrection of ones inborn spirit) that is different from the return to life (resurrection) that occurs so the dead may complete divine judgment. Included are balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “Mark” (Level 1 with139 points) posted the following:

Was adam the son of God according to the bible luke 3:38?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 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. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. (1^st Corinthians 15: 39-46, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Device of Inheritance (12/01/2020); The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); Made Perfect By Divinity (11/10/2020); When Does Resurrection Occur? (10/25/2020); “What if” and “Maybe” (10/20/2020); Why Are Sinners “saved?” (10/11/2020); Chosen Because Already Committed (09/07/2020)

“Mark”, many mature Christian believers acknowledge Adam as an offspring and child of GOD on the basis of the holy writings that appear in Genesis. Without using the finite human process of sexual reproduction, the process and substance of mankind has been one of divinity imparting spirit matter into a material form fashioned by GOD. Operations of spirit from the makeup and personhood of divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) were required for man to become a “living soul.” In Christian belief, to this very hour, the only origins for both existence and life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; utterance; word) continue to be GOD. Adam was first made to be a single, stand-alone, male entity; GOD altered the male figure by removing one of his ribs to fashion the female, and the pair were regarded by divinity as one unit. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Genesis 2: 4-8, King James Version (KJV): 4 These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 5 And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew: for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was not a man to till the ground. 6 But there went up a mist from the earth, and watered the whole face of the ground. 7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. 8 And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed.

(2.) Genesis 2: 15-18, KJV: 15 And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it. 16 And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: 17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. 18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

(3.) Genesis 2: 21-25, KJV: 21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; 22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. 25 And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Job 12: 7-10, KJV: 7 But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee: 8 Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee. 9 Who knoweth not in all these that the hand of the LORD hath wrought this? 10 In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind.) 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

(02/02/2020) Accountable For Spreading Disbelief?

Today, reply is on whether there are grace and forgiveness for those who spread disbelief, rebellion against Christ, and spiritual confusion. By blasphemy, complaining, practicing deception, lying, slander, and posing questions to undermine faith, many are made to despair of salvation. For this reason, mature Christian believers also serve as watchmen who nurture and protect those still developing. There are many different acts of acknowledgment and dedication to GOD that those who commit transgression against divine law are to perform in becoming restored as full members within the church body. Included are atonement, confession, contrition, learning, prayer, repentance, and sorrowing for sin. It is written: Psalms 19: 12-14, King James Version (KJV): 12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults. 13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. 14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Does god forgive you if you turned people against him? ?

I was very mentally ill at the time and was not aware of the consequences of my actions. I made some silly choices one of them being that I did not stop to think that I might’ve turned people away from god from one of the choices I made. I feel like this is a very big sin = turning others away from god.

Although I am not responsible for other people’s choices I could’ve enabled them not to have god In their lives.

Will god forgive me if I repent to him for making a big sin like this?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. (Proverbs 11: 30, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Pray For Your Enemies? (01/03/2020); The Many Divine Gifts (12/03/2019); Eternal Judgment With Mercy (11/19/2019); How To Serve GOD (09/04/2019); The Gift Of GOD (10/15/2018); Rendering Our Reasonable Service (06/15/2018); Opposing The Divine Will (03/30/2018)

“Anonymous”, mature Christian believers acknowledge a duty to divinity to display the image of GOD, and to resemble, reflect and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. The elements of adult love toward GOD will be seen in such believers, rather than infatuation (puppy love) recognizable by their consistency, their willingness to be held accountable for their own actions and deeds, and their obedience (putting aside their own desires to perform the desire of another) as well as by their willingness to fulfill commitment. Where believers commit sins of ignorance, they are granted grace and forgiveness, atonement is made, and the operations of GOD should call forth such features as change, discovery, gratitude, gradual growth, focus, renewal, repentance, and unselfish service. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Bob Carlisle:

(1.) Numbers 15: 22-31, King James Version (KJV): 22 And if ye have erred, and not observed all these commandments, which the LORD hath spoken unto Moses, 23 Even all that the LORD hath commanded you by the hand of Moses, from the day that the LORD commanded Moses, and henceforward among your generations; 24 Then it shall be, if aught be committed by ignorance without the knowledge of the congregation, that all the congregation shall offer one young bullock for a burnt offering, for a sweet savour unto the LORD, with his meat offering, and his drink offering, according to the manner, and one kid of the goats for a sin offering. 25 And the priest shall make an atonement for all the congregation of the children of Israel, and it shall be forgiven them; for it is ignorance: and they shall bring their offering, a sacrifice made by fire unto the LORD, and their sin offering before the LORD, for their ignorance: 26 And it shall be forgiven all the congregation of the children of Israel, and the stranger that sojourneth among them; seeing all the people were in ignorance. 27 And if any soul sin through ignorance, then he shall bring a she goat of the first year for a sin offering. 28 And the priest shall make an atonement for the soul that sinneth ignorantly, when he sinneth by ignorance before the LORD, to make an atonement for him; and it shall be forgiven him. 29 Ye shall have one law for him that sinneth through ignorance, both for him that is born among the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them. 30 But the soul that doeth aught presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. 31 Because he hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him.

(2.) Ezekiel 33: 1-9, KJV: 1 Again the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, 2 Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman: 3 If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people; 4 Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head. 5 He heard the sound of the trumpet, and took not warning; his blood shall be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall deliver his soul. 6 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand. 7 So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me. 8 When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. 9 Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

(3.) Romans 12: 4-8, KJV: 4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: 5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

(4.) 1^st Timothy 1: 12-14, KJV: 12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saYYm1CkX3M). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 8:56 AM, February 02, 2020 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQTRxn31JGmdK0_4wKIm2erGfv9-DYum1Rfd9_AKvm3T6oZ0UlMnJuzKEBVY1qGF1xA6XKDmyTSlQSVI41TdLiJ-A1wFNUZ11jEr7Z4jtC1L0bzrNyx87yObXeQcaVba6Z5frGYEe5CXj/s1600/Leviticus+5-17.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/19/2020) Do Animals Have "Souls"?

Today, the reply is on whether animals and other living creatures have “souls”. At Creation, dominion over the earth was granted to mankind; the awe, humility, and submission shown to man by other creatures is to display and make visible what is to be humanity’s relationship with GOD who remains invisible and unseen. While all that exist and are alive on the earth have come into presence through GOD, consciousness and self-will within all created beings and living creatures may be dominated by the operations of sin. The holy writings do not include instruction that divinity responds to every living thing as having equal ability and presence with GOD, yet, there are many acknowledgments of the Creator’s concern, grace, and provision to even the least of them. It is written: Psalms 84: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts! 2 My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God. 3 Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God. Also: Job 38: 35-41, KJV: 35 Canst thou send lightnings, that they may go and say unto thee, Here we are? 36 Who hath put wisdom in the inward parts? or who hath given understanding to the heart? 37 Who can number the clouds in wisdom? or who can stay the bottles of heaven, 38 When the dust groweth into hardness, and the clods cleave fast together? 39 Wilt thou hunt the prey for the lion? or fill the appetite of the young lions, 40 When they couch in their dens, and abide in the covert to lie in wait? 41 Who provideth for the raven his food? when his young ones cry unto God, they wander for lack of meat. One of the writers in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Josephette Maria (Level 1 with 162 points) posted the following:

Do only mammals have souls? What about simpler creatures like birds, turtles and fish?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God. (Luke 12: 4-9, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Fully Communicating Human Potential? (09/30/2019); Divine Spirit Within Animals? (09/05/2019); Was Creation A Failure? (05/13/2019); How Did Noah Know? (10/14/2018); A Species of Animal? (01/31/2017); GOD’s Peculiar People (12/11/2016); Spirit, Spirit Beings, Spirit Persons? (10/13/2015); Another Gospel? (10/19/2013); A Visit from an Angel? (10/20/2013); The Head Not The Tail? (10/21/2013)

“Josephette Maria”, relying on the holy writings for guidance and instruction, many mature Christian believers agree that a “living soul” is a created being or living creature whose form has been fashioned by divinity, and who has been infused with consciousness, self-will (we also say, willpower), and inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. Included are angels, animals, mankind, and the sacred beasts of heaven. Diverse finite abilities, properties and tools are found among them such as alertness, intelligence, logic, carnal reason, and discursive thought. Only divinity is immortal and incorruptible. Through the operations of sin, death and mortality continue as a condition of challenge and limitation for all living on the earth; and the duration of celestial creatures (who are neither mortal nor immortal) is on the basis of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD.

The earth is to be inhabited, and was created as a home for Adam, who was fashioned to be a companion to divinity. Of the many creatures on the earth, only mankind has received life essence in his nostrils (as breath; spirit; word) imparted from GOD. However, through transgression of sacred law, there now is enmity between the created and the Creator. Following the flood survived by Noah and the animals on the ark, new covenant relationships were provided for those on the earth. Even so, only humans are allowed to become reborn through operations of the Holy Spirit to exist as offspring, and the children of GOD. Acknowledging Jesus Christ as the Son of the Highest, the Lamb of GOD, sinners may receive fresh endowments of divine DNA, so to speak. Then, as developing Christian believers, joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, and the new creation, repenting sinners are to display the image of GOD, and are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the praise, prophecy and music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Genesis 2: 4-7, King James Version (KJV): 4 These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 5 And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew: for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was not a man to till the ground. 6 But there went up a mist from the earth, and watered the whole face of the ground. 7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

(2.) Ezekiel 18: 20-23, KJV: 20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. 21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. 23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live?

(3.) Ecclesiastes 3: 19-21, KJV: 19 For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. 20 All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. 21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?

(4.) John 1: 10-14, KJV: 10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. 11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yd8nVLtnAA.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:05 AM, January 19, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/77/1d/6f/771d6f8ec17c5c61439d46d34534c475.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/05/2019) Divine Spirit Within Animals?

A depiction of Abraham like Adam receiving a ram from GOD to be offered in sacrifice for sin in place of his heir.

Today, reply is on the need among animals to read the Bible, and to receive prophecy, revelation, and sacred knowledge. Animals have an innate consciousness of GOD as part of their makeup and substance. Human beings have no reason to doubt that animals also can apprehend and respond to the operations of divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Animals are an appearance and manifestation of the sovereign will of GOD as Creator. Mankind was fashioned and formed by the divine hand, and completed using life essence from the Creator (we say, breath, spirit, word). The beasts and living creatures appeared as acts of GOD when spoken and uttered into existence. While animals continue in covenant relationship with divinity from the times following their deliverance on the ark of Noah, their survival does not depend on their finite intellectual skills and traits. Mature Christians readily accept that the animals gathered to the ark did so in response to promptings by the Holy Spirit, not the preaching of Noah; the ravens who fed the prophet Elijah at the brook-side, were commanded and guided by GOD; and the lions who demonstrated divine restraint while the prophet Daniel was present within their lair acknowledged the divine Creator and Maker. Our pets (and we ourselves) operate as having animal intelligence that includes consciousness, emotions, empathy, instinct, and intuition; and many display an ability to communicate among themselves. Even so, languages and literacy as seen among mankind has not been observed and reported among the many beasts living on the earth. It is written: Romans 8: 22-23, King James Version (KJV): 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answer” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Night city light” (Level 2 with 253 points, a member since August 20, 2019) posted the following:

Why is Bible only for humans, why can't animals read Bible, does that mean other beings are less important in God eyes?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; (Colossians 1: 19-23, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Was Creation A Failure? (05/13/2019); How Did Noah Know? (10/14/2018); Multiply, Replenish and Rule (08/27/2017); A Species of Animal? (01/31/2017); The Covenant of Noah? (12/16/2014); Atone, Judge and Replenish (12/17/2014); Animals Do Not Sin? (09/29/2013); GOD is Acknowledging (09/30/2013); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013); Believers and the Cross (06/24/2013)

“Night city light”, angels and animals are not “living souls” within the Creation, and their needs for divine process and sacred knowledge are not the same as that among humankind. Only mankind is challenged to communicate, exchange, and interact with divinity by having the same awareness and sacred knowledge granted to Adam, and given to them in the form of life essence (breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD. Because animals were put forth having aspects of the same inseparable spirit content, they also respond to the Maker as authority, power, active presence, and sovereign will, however, they do not relate as offspring, or sons and daughters of GOD. The primary focus of divine judgment is the presence and expression of spirit content from GOD. Human consciousness and self-will (willpower) are to display spirit content and influence that go beyond emotion and feelings. The endowment of sacred spirit imparted to the living includes faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovinkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

While some people will show favor and disfavor to others because they are able to read and recite the things that are written in the Bible, our Father in heaven does not demand that all created beings and living creatures be able to quote from the divine law, memorize the advice and counsels recorded as Scripture, or read and write the full collection of documents, epistles, messages, and prophecies preserved as the Bible. Whether a person will be accepted by divinity, accounted worthy to be granted eternal life, and whether they will be approved as having meaning, quality and value as life companions to GOD depends on things that describe divinity more than on things that describe mankind.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, divine judgment and salvation go forward on the basis of the forgiveness, grace, impartiality, eternal purpose, and righteousness of GOD, rather than the flaws, infirmities, and sins of the living. The character, possibilities and potential of men and angels continue to be shown through behavior that is animal, human, or divine; and is often put forth as a mixture of the three. Finite human awareness and self-will can be determined by operations of sin—even though divinity has never created or put forth sin.) 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

(08/14/2019) Spirits Of The Dead

Today, reply is on existence, life, and whether spirits of the dead actually exist. Mortality and death pertain to the state of the physical body more than to the influence of spirit on the process and substance of life. The deposit of spirit that operates as life within both Christians and sinners is understood as different from the spirit that appears as religion, or the imparted spirit from the makeup of GOD provided for rebirth and salvation in those becoming born again. While there is much disagreement among Christians regarding the place where ones life spirit is located or resides after leaving a physical body (e.g., limbo, purgatory, the place of torment), many nonetheless agree that ones spirit continues to exist, and will at some point re-occupy its own form (body). It is written: Romans 8: 22-23, King James Version (KJV): 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Skittles” (Level 3 with 1,672 points, a member since May 12, 2012) posted the following:

Does spirits of the dead really exist?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (for we walk by faith, not by sight.) (2nd Corinthians 5: 1-7, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Present With The Lord (08/05/2019); Death Used in Salvation (06/28/2019); Two Uses For Resurrection (05/01/2019); Challenged To Explain Resurrection (10/08/2018); The Comfort Through Christ? (01/13/2017); Signs From The Dead? (01/15/2017); Life Is GOD’s Intent (11/15/2016); Discovered Differences? (09/18/2015); Spirit, Spirit Beings, Spirit Persons? (10/13/2015)

“Skittles”, here are some thoughts you may find helpful. Mature Christians do not acknowledge apparitions, ghosts, phantoms, and occult creatures. As a matter of their faith and full understanding, many agree that where life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) has been imparted from GOD to inhabit flesh and blood, a created being or creature is produced who displays consciousness, existence, and life. GOD must be joined with a material body for there to be “a living soul.” Material things may exist having neither consciousness nor life (e.g., a cardboard box; a corpse; a stone idol). Even so, all material things that exist occupy measurable amounts of space, and may register as a focus or object in the consciousness of the living.

Spirit can not be known completely and correctly, or manipulated using only such finite human tools as intellect, logic, sensation, recall, and thought. Spirit matter exists as unseen active presence; may display direction; and may of itself both concentrate and expand. The operations of Spirit become visible through its effects, and when Spirit embodies or uses multiple forms as vessels. Destroying a vessel that contains spirit matter does not always destroy its spirit content also. Because spirit substance is diffuse, immaterial, invisible, and immeasurable, many deny the existence of Spirit. In their error, they insist “spirit” has no authentic influence and power over the living.

Death is the completion of ones mortality; the loss of life; and the separation event where the spirit that allows the living to display direction, personhood, purpose, and self-will leaves the physical body. To comfort survivors of bereavement, mankind continues to use many diverse explanations and traditions that promote the continued existence of ones spirit, and therefore, possibilities for their life to be renewed and restored. Divine judgment requires resurrection of the dead, for all who appear before divinity must be alive. Consider again the following found among Christians that use language from the Bible:

1. Ecclesiastes 3: 18-22, King James Version (KJV): 18 I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts. 19 For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. 20 All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. 21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth? 22 Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?

2. Ecclesiastes 12: 1-7, KJV: 1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them; 2 While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain: 3 In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened, 4 And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low; 5 Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets: 6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. 7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Revelation 20: 4-6, KJV: 4 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. 5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6 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.) 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

(09/25/2017) The Makeup of GOD

Today, focus is on the totality of operations, purposes, and substance acknowledged by the living as divinity and spirit.  In addition to the Father, who is spirit, and the Incarnate Son who appears using flesh and bone, the Holy Spirit depicted by a dove completes the three persons of the One we call the GODhead.  The Holy Spirit is also known as the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Spirit of Truth.  The holy writings convey and impart spirit matter, and speak of ministering spirits (the holy angels); spirit substance from the fullness of divine being such as faith, holiness, immortality, incorruption, wisdom, and wrath against sin; the spirit imparted to mankind from GOD that is life essence (we also say, breath, word); the spirit matter that indwelled Jesus Christ while on the earth; the spirit that operates in rebirth and resurrection of a sinner’s inborn spirit; and the gifts of the Holy Spirit that are required to edify and empower the community of believers who follow Christ as his church.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “John” (Level 1 with 3 points, date enrolled is withheld) posted the following:


What do christians mean by 'spirit'? What is spirit, like when they say that god consists of spirit?

And is it the same stuff as souls are made of?

Please be as specific as possible, since this is a very important aspect of theology to understand.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:  And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;  And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD:  and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:  But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth:  and he shall smite the earth:  with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.  And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.  The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.  (Isaiah 11:  1-6, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Hope That Is True (02/20/2017); Divine Presence and Spirit (01/18/2017); Learning From A Spirit? (08/25/2016); Word, Son, and Christ? (08/24/2016); Spirit, Spirit Beings, Spirit Persons? (10/13/2015); Can The Bible Be Increased? (05/31/2015); The Words Are Spirit? (06/03/2015)


“John”, the finite tools of created beings and living creatures such as emotion, intelligence, logic, philosophy, science and technology are useless to completely and correctly apprehend “spirit” .  Moreover, sacred knowledge from GOD, about GOD, is granted on a “need to know” basis through discovery and is given to those who are in peculiar personal relationships with divinity (e.g., apostles, covenant partners, offspring, prophets, spokespersons).  Those who receive revealed truth become shielded against spiritual confusion and error by themselves containing aspects of divine person (we say, the imparted spirit); and by their being directed and focused through divine law, sacred practice, and eternal purpose.

The GODhead (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) should be acknowledged as a single fullness who manifests all divine substance.  The three persons of the GODhead interact having oneness without sameness.  Inseparable aspects of Deity (where you find one, all the others also appear; however, not necessarily in the same measure or proportion) continually coalesce, interact, distance themselves from one another without separation, and reconfigure.  Included are such substance as authority, awe, completeness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, perfection, person, presence, righteousness, and sovereign will.

Man became a “living soul” when GOD imparted life essence (we also say, breath, spirit, word) into a form that had been prepared to serve as a vessel for divine substance.   Spirit may exist without form (we say, body); and the dead may be understood as spirit separated from body; however, the living must have both form and spirit.  Because the Scriptures do speak of “souls under the altar,” many believe there can be disembodied souls, and even, undying and eternal souls.  Resurrected spirits without their body from GOD are like promises, prophecies, and visions without their fulfillment.  Just as “possibilities” have existence without material form; resurrected spirits are as shadows, and lack full substance to those in mortality.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(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.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  1st Corinthians 13:  11-13, KJV:  11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:  but when I became a man, I put away childish things.  12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face:  now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.  13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/09/2016) On Really Seeing Angels

Today, whether others will accept a person’s testimony and witness regarding angels is the topic.  The truth divinity is providing to mankind is centered upon Jesus Christ not angels, not death, not Satan, not Sin.  Among Christian believers, those entrusted with sacred truth always are challenged to make their own lifestyle and daily routines a continuous declaration of ministry by Jesus Christ.  Accounts of angels, miracles, and other aspects of divine ministry also are necessary, can be fruitful, and for some will be unforgettable.  Even so, what believers experience as a sacred event may require they delay its proclamation until they first clarify what has occurred within themselves, and have a firm understanding of its meaning and value.  They may prepare themselves through dialog with others, fasting, meditation, prayer, and focused study of the Scriptures.  Responses from those who are born again (i.e., having a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of the Creator such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, wrath against sin), and those who already have skill applying spiritual discernment likely will be very different from those who are yet sinners and merely curious.  Without altering or bending the truth, the person sharing witness has to present their message in ways that respond to the ability, meekness, and readiness of their hearers.  Those who serve as watchmen, or are sent as apostles, evangelists, prophets, spokespersons, and witnesses often must operate with a sense of urgency.  They are all “first responders” and their mission is to save lives.  They must work with the understanding that souls are in the balance, and they themselves may never be given a second opportunity.  Thus, every message, statement, and testimony they share is to be presented as from the lips of Jesus to cleanse, heal, and nourish his church.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

If someone saw an angel will people believe?

I was bored and wondering if someone saw angels for real will people or someone believe them and what should they do keep the info or what?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And the men said unto Lot, Hast thou here any besides? son in law, and thy sons, and thy daughters, and whatsoever thou hast in the city, bring them out of this place:  For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it.  And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the LORD will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law.  And when the morning arose, then the angels hastened Lot, saying, Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in the iniquity of the city.  And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him:  and they brought him forth, and set him without the city.  And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.  And Lot said unto them, Oh, not so, my Lord:  Behold now, thy servant hath found grace in thy sight, and thou hast magnified thy mercy, which thou hast shewed unto me in saving my life; and I cannot escape to the mountain, lest some evil take me, and I die:  Behold now, this city is near to flee unto, and it is a little one:  Oh, let me escape thither, (is it not a little one?) and my soul shall live.  And he said unto him, See, I have accepted thee concerning this thing also, that I will not overthrow this city, for the which thou hast spoken.  Haste thee, escape thither; for I cannot do anything till thou be come thither. Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar.  The sun was risen upon the earth when Lot entered into Zoar.  Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven;  And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground.  (Genesis 19:  12-25, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Spirit, Spirit Beings, Spirit Persons? (10/13/2015); The Need For Divine Rule? (08/27/2015); Getting It Right About Angels (05/10/2015); Miracles and Visitations? (03/03/2014); All Lying Forbidden? (03/04/2014); A Visit from an Angel? (10/20/2013); The Head Not The Tail? (10/21/2013)

“Anonymous”, in my experience, angels are alive, are as real as the many rock stars we have supported (i.e., grooved to) yet never met, and continue to be used as servants of Jesus Christ and of the Father.  What a person will have to say regarding their own experience of sacred events (that may include, healing, miracles, praise, prayer, speaking in tongues, trances, and worship) will vary according to such features as the assignment, charge, or duty they will be given and held accountable for; the sacred knowledge they receive and are able to apply; other persons and witnesses who are present, are to be contacted, or are to be approached and enlisted for assistance; their individual level of maturity, skill, and understanding as a follower and servant of the Lord as well as the specific intent and eternal purposes that are involved.  When it comes to sacred events, no true believer “brags”, is self-promoting, or shows off, for they understand that what occurred was not because of their own goodness, holiness, righteousness, and self-will; it was the will of the Lord.

While ones experience of a sacred event also is intended for their own correction, development, and personal growth—and can be described as affirming, amazing, beautiful and wondrous—such occurrences are rarely for ones amusement, entertainment, private enjoyment, and gratification.  To avoid spiritual confusion and error, emotional and psychological stability should be in place that comes with a solid foundation of faith.  What one encounters may seem demonic, dreamlike, incredible (i.e., not to be believed), or magical and unreal. 

Courage to speak and proclaim ones experience to others (often called testimony and witness) comes through acceptance of ones duty to share truth, and the understanding that your task may only be completely and correctly carried out by acknowledgement of its authenticity, authority, and divine origin.  In effect, the believer is under oath and upon a witness stand in sacred judgment, and must speak the truth or be severely reprimanded.  Acceptance of witness depends upon factors that include believers and sinners acknowledging the active presence of divinity in the person of the Holy Spirit (also called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth); your own and the willingness of others to obey divine law, prophecy (comfort, edification, and exhortation for the church to take action), and revelation (invisible divinity becoming knowable and known, and visible); and the existence of imparted, indwelling spirit substance from the makeup of the Creator (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin) within those to whom the demonstrations, messages, and visitations are sent.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/05/2016) The Purpose of Resurrection

Today, points are shared to clarify the divine intent and operations of resurrection for the dead.  The resurrection of Jesus Christ after dying upon the cross and burial further served to authenticate his identity as an appearance and incarnation of divinity.  Resurrection is therefore acknowledged as an aspect of revelation wherein divinity is unveiled for the benefit of sentient creatures (those having ability to apprehend the content of existence by operations of their own awareness and self-will).  Resurrection also may be understood as a creation event like that wherein the breath of life (matter from the makeup of Deity, divine spirit, word) was imparted into a carnal form made from the earth (Adam).  In resurrection, as in Creation, a living soul comes into existence only as there is joining of a physical body to diverse aspects of divine Spirit.  In resurrection for the dead, the specific pattern of inseparable spirit content from the makeup of GOD that once existed as the character, nature and substance of a single person upon the earth is deposited within a reconstruction of their former body.  Even though many resurrected ones will be facing the wrath of GOD as those labeled the unjust and the wicked, they will be shielded and spared during their judgment by the love, mercy, restraint and righteousness of GOD.  One of the several fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Christians, is it true that those who have died will be resurrected to get a second chance to be saved?

Update: I am not a Jehovah’s Witness, so what will happen to me when I die?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:  And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.  And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.  (Acts 24:  14-16, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Bridge To Heaven (01/27/2016); The Return to Dust? (06/14/2015); His Resurrection Still Relevant? (10/05/2014); The Testing of Job? (10/06/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); The Bible is Unchanging? (03/23/2014); Genuine Repentance? (03/24/2014)

“Anonymous”, many mature Christian believers rely upon the holy writings for instruction on the divine process and purpose of resurrection from the dead.  Among such believers, the authority of the Scriptures is held to be “more correct” than that of the peculiar doctrine and practice specific to various denominations.  Here are some points from my understanding that you may find helpful:

1.  Because it is required both to complete the ongoing transformation of mankind to exist as an eternal companion of divinity, and further establish the lawfulness and righteousness of divine judgment for the wicked, resurrection is different from “raising the dead,” re-animation, or reviving the dead, where a person may stop breathing or have no heart beat for a short period.  This includes restoring persons maintained in long periods of unconsciousness such as comas and cryogenic states (i.e., frozen) as well as recovering persons from psychotropic drugs and continuous use of certain sedatives.  The mortal must put on immortality and incorruption.  Persons raised from the dead, such as Lazarus in Scripture, are alive again as only a temporary condition; and may go to their grave to be resurrected.  By contrast, persons in resurrection already have completed judgment, or are resurrected to immediately appear in judgment before divinity.

2.  The Scriptures proclaim two sacred events described as resurrection.  The first, spoken of as “the resurrection of the just, or justified ones,” will be at the appearing of Jesus Christ (many say, the Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  All who are under the atoning, redeeming and saving blood of Jesus as having had faith, those who are thereby his disciples and followers, and those who are joint-heirs with the Son will be removed from the earth as “ripe” for harvest.   This includes the ones who are alive as well as those that must be recomposed from their grave after thousands of years, or other places of repose such as the sea, and areas where they have been scattered to by the wind in cremation.

3.  The second resurrection, spoken of as “the resurrection of the unjust” and “of the wicked,” will follow the one thousand year period wherein those from the first resurrection have lived with Christ in heaven.  The millennium is a time of further sacred works that include distributing allotments and populating the New Jerusalem, preparing for unbelievers and the wicked to appear alive in their own judgment tribunal, and preparing to be restored to the new earth that is to be the eternal dwelling place, not heaven.

You are encouraged to continue your studies of the Bible.  There is far more that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, the second death that is the final destruction for created beings and living creatures condemned in sacred judgment will have begun before the second resurrection.  Satan, the false prophet, and others will have already been cast into the lake of fire, which is the second death.)  Even so, I am sure this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC