(07/22/2016) Be Ye Therefore Perfect

Today, Scripture points are shared on the value of religious beliefs, and the holy writings.  Many forceful and immature voices are now being heard through popular culture that argue the Bible and organized religion are antiquated, confrontational, divisive, exacting, homicidal, humiliating, incendiary, unnecessarily judgmental, and uncivilized.  These so-called “enlightened critics” promote the same spirit of defiance, insurrection, pseudo-intellectualism, and rebellion that was articulated through communism; however, their contemporary calls are that all doctrine, organized religious practices, standards, and teachings be outlawed and prohibited for the sake of global survival, and world peace.  Since the days of Abel and Cain, there have been those who desire the blessing GOD provides only to his own heirs and offspring; however, they continue to deny the lovingkindness, preeminence and sovereignty of the Creator.  Christian believers are cautioned against “thieves” who come only to rob, kill, and destroy; “wolves in sheep’s clothing;” and those displaying a form of godliness, but denying the true Power.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Is the bible used by both evil people and good people. Does it serve a double standard.?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.  (Acts 20:  32, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Conflict Because of Religious Belief? (01/30/2015); Unto The Pure (11/15/2015); A Price for Religious Liberty? (06/30/2015); A Wandering Jew? (04/09/2015); Faith not Politics? (12/02/2014); Ye Are Not In The Flesh (12/03/2014); God Bless America? (09/12/2013); Law, Slavery and Redemption  (09/13/2013)

“Anonymous”, for the disciples and followers of Jesus Christ, the holy writings are an actual appearance and embodiment (we also say, a manifestation) of divinity.  So to speak, the Scriptures provide “a divine point of view” revealing the active presence of Deity by using thousands of events within thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years.  To have the fullest benefit from the Scriptures, a believer must receive the divine anointing and spiritual gifts that give meaning and power to their experiences of growth, guidance, instruction, and preparation.  Included are baptism, confession, forgiveness, penance, praise, prophecy, sanctification, thanksgiving, and worship.  Even so, many deal with religious beliefs, emblems, and sacred knowledge the same way “fans” will deal with their favorite sports.  They insist upon professional balls, jerseys, and playing fields, yet, are mere “weekend warriors” who rarely get involved in local league activity.  While they may boast, challenge each other, and “talk plenty trash,” few are career criminals, con-artists, and imposters seeking to exploit, “hustle”, and victimize those in their own community.  Similarly, there are many who “follow” as religious believers who do not properly discern the spirit content, eternal purposes, and sacred operations of divinity.  Such people can appear to be blasphemers, bogus or counterfeit clergy, and “false prophets” that misapply, and “wrest” the Scriptures.  However, more than being agents of Satan, cold-blooded crooks, disbelievers, and frauds, the many “fair-weather” and “nominal believers” (in name only) often are answering as babes to “growing pains”, for the even-handed and impartial responses by GOD to the human predicament often appear to be chance, coincidence, and a matter of ones “luck”.   Consider again how some of this is stated in the language of the Bible:

(1.)   Hebrews 4:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.  2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them:  but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.  3 For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest:  although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

(2.)  Matthew 5:  43-48, KJV:  43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.  44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;  45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven:  for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.  46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?  47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?  48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

(3.)  Ezekiel 33:  30-33, KJV:  30 Also, thou son of man, the children of thy people still are talking against thee by the walls and in the doors of the houses, and speak one to another, every one to his brother, saying, Come, I pray you, and hear what is the word that cometh forth from the LORD.  31 And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them:  for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness.  32 And, lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument:  for they hear thy words, but they do them not.  33 And when this cometh to pass, (lo, it will come,) then shall they know that a prophet hath been among them.

(4.)  Isaiah 5:  18-21, KJV:  18 Woe unto them that draw iniquity with cords of vanity, and sin as it were with a cart rope:  19 That say, Let him make speed, and hasten his work, that we may see it:  and let the counsel of the Holy One of Israel draw nigh and come, that we may know it!  20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!  21 Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (5.)  2nd Corinthians 4:  1-7, KJV:  1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;  2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.  3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:  4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.  5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.  6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/20/2015) On Wearing Sports Jerseys?

Adornment, amusements, and social activities conducted within the church are topics, today.  Believers are to be in the world, yet, not of it.  The clothing believers wear can neither ensure their salvation, nor of itself seal them in condemnation.  Many believers are committed to a process for increasing the church that relies upon connecting to others upon their own carnal, material, and social level.  Even so, judgment remains the exclusive province of Christ partly because there must be a weighing of things that are subtle (i.e., barely visible; having hidden shifts in meaning and value), and that have no physical substance such as comprehension, divine prerogative, and eternal purpose.  Those within communities of faith also may derive benefit from amusements such as family entertainment, ice cream socials, singles activity, and Super Bowl parties.  However, just as accountability and intimacy within the home generate a different standard for shared activities to entertain and refresh the family, recreation within the body of believers that appears in the public forum should always continue circumspection and restraint.  To avoid misrepresentation of the spiritual body, leisure behavior should only be shared in private settings, and not events open to the public.  Consider again the following from the Bible, and the comments appearing below:  John 7:  24, King James Version (KJV):  24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.  Also, 2nd Corinthians 13:  5, KJV:  5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.  Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?  2nd Corinthians 4:  15-17, KJV:  15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.  16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! 7 Answers” (Australia) using the ID “Anonymous” (profile information withheld) posted the following:


Christians: What are your thoughts of this Protestant church promoting the wearing of sports jersies to their weekend services?

Crossroads Fellowship Church
Saturday, November 7 | 5:00pm
Sunday, November 8 | 8:30am, 10:00am, & 11:30am
Wear Your Favorite Team Jersey to Church!

How do you feel about this? Show your team spirit by wearing your favorite team jersey to church!

Come prepared for worship and game day fun!

 http://www.crossroads.org/story.aspx?storyid=1125

Update:  Do you see this as an abomination? A desperate marketing tactic perhaps?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.  And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;  To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.  To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak:  I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.  And this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.  Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.  And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.  I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:  But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection:  lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.  (1st Corinthians 9:  19-27, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); What Faith Makes Possible (04/25/2014); Worship Wear? (01/23/2014); Mankind Destroyed? (01/24/2014); Are Holidays Bad? (11/16/2013); Denying GOD by Eating Shrimp? (11/17/2013); Will GOD Bless My Team? (12/31/2012); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013)


“Anonymous”, in the effort to create an atmosphere of mutual acceptance, suspension of being judged by others, and unconditional love, many congregations of Christian believers now appear to operate without the strict dress codes and standards that once distinguished church goers and Christian believers as “sanctified” (i.e., set apart for the exclusive use of divinity).  For those in relationship with GOD through Jesus Christ, it is important to address such doctrines and themes as release from the strictures of Old Testament law; new life by apprehension of divine spirit content; new covenant grounded in righteousness through faith as well as discerning sameness and difference for the spirit of divine law and its letter.  Even so, there is never to be a total abandonment of discipline, regulation, and shared truth that establishes stability.

Correctly understood, sanctification proceeds only by operations of GOD, and is not the product of indoctrination, intellect, logic, and reason.  Believers experience excitement joy, and zeal as they acquire sacred knowledge and gain mastery through sacred practice (we say, observing sacraments).  However, these are aspects of the character, nature and spirit that make up divinity; and are not the same as emotion, excitement, fanaticism, and passion that characterize carnal and finite being.

Correctly received, assembling and church attendance are gifts and sacred events from GOD wherein believers are granted access to the divine presence, and opportunity to be in shared communion and direct exchange with Deity.  Mature believers “put their best foot forward” and wear their “Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes” as acknowledgment, and an outward demonstration of inner order, propriety and respect toward GOD.  What they wear is not intended for boasting, showing off, and vainglory.  Their attitude, mind-set and motives are directed to knowing and pleasing GOD.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, believers have to be careful to avoid the trap that baits them into judging others.  Because all believers must gradually develop and grow, everyone who participates in a gathering at the church does not come being on the same level of commitment, devotion, maturity, and understanding.  All appear because they are confessing their need for change, correction and growth.  The welcome is equally to those seeking peace and rest as it is for those seeking their place as disciples, laborers and workers for the kingdom.  What appears as casual dress and clothing more suited to play often has been chosen for its value as a lubricant to contact (i.e., familiarity, recognition, remembering), being in proper uniform for hard work, and a lever to interaction that will nourish the body.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/25/2014) What Faith Makes Possible

Faith, miracles, and possibilities are topics, today, along with more on why sharing Christian belief is not a matter of opinion.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Oloo” (Level 1 with 25 points, a member since January 04, 2013) posted the following:


What does ot means that faith makes all things possible? 

if I sit there and pray or affirm with faith then will it fulfil my wish


THE BATTLE AXE:  Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014)—(5.)  Those who are self-promoting have no place as the agents of Christ.  The sacred message of the church is maintained as unchanging through its disciplined application of the holy writings as well as its focus upon and continuous practice of well-defined sacraments.  Believers are to proclaim, “It is written,” and speak the mind of Christ, rather than their own feelings, and speculations.  In the same way, a professional baseball player is aware of basketball, football and hockey as competing sports, yet, does not answer to or concern himself with their regulations, rules, and player statistics, those in Christ do not encumber themselves with the thoughts of atheists, doubters, and those committed to other systems of belief.  The high standards for divine judgment are woven through every aspect of new life in Christ.  Thus, mature believers consistently display attention to detail, circumspection, dutifulness, faithfulness, humility, impartiality, meekness, righteousness, truthfulness, and vigilance.  (6.)  Ministry through Jesus Christ is the work of all believers, and becomes the life of every believer.  As a result, there are no “days off,” or “vacations”.  Ones duty and service to GOD continues, all day, every day (we say, 24-7), awake and sleeping, even in the Sabbath.  While opportunity and privilege for intimate personal relationship is extended whereby all may experience divine love as children of GOD, employment as a joint-heir with Christ is not for those whose lives are crowded with activity, and other relationships that compete with and interrupt divine service.  Many are called, however, few are chosen as fit for the position without also having extended experiences of challenge that result in spiritual growth.  Every activity and relationship outside of Christ is confronted, scrutinized, and, often, removed.  The commitment for service to GOD through Christ may become all-consuming, demanding, and exhausting; yet, the active believer never becomes overwhelmed by change and loss as though bereaved, bored, or “burned out.”  See Isaiah 55:  7-11, Isaiah 58:  13-14, Jeremiah 23:  21-22, Luke 9:  26, Romans 9:  1, Romans 16:  17-18, 2nd Corinthians 2:  17, Philippians 3:  7-14, 1st Timothy 6:  3-4 and 2nd John 1:  7-11, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:  Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions.  Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.  Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:  And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:  They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword:  they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;  (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.  And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:  God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.  (Hebrews 11:  32-40, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Faith Given By GOD (03/13/2014); Miracles Are From GOD (03/14/2014); Mustard Seed Faith? (01/16/2014); The Judges Who Condemned Jesus? (01/17/2014); Childlike Faith (10/18/2012); Why Did The Judges Fight? (10/19/2012)


“Oloo”, many important points must be shared to completely and correctly answer your question.  Even so, here are a few you may find helpful:

(1.)  Faith is divine matter, and is different from the products of emotion and intellect (e.g., fear, imagination, thoughts) that are generated by interactions within human flesh (appetite, metabolism and sensation).

(2.)  As an aspect within the makeup of divinity, faith is inseparable from other sacred content such as forgiveness, gratitude, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(3.)  Where faith is imparted as a special endowment from the ministry of Jesus Christ, faith furthers the accomplishment of divine operations, sacred tasks, and eternal purposes.  While mankind is capable of destruction and evil (i.e., arbitrary or sudden and widespread change; catastrophe; upheaval), corruption and ruin are not accomplished through faith, for faith also works to continue and uphold divine order throughout the universe.

There is a lot more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Faith can move mountains, and cause sacred events (we say, miracles), however, only as an expression of divine will, not of selfish desire.  Miracles do not always build up faith in GOD, for without being anchored in the Spirit, many who experience a miracle are only made confused, frightened, and skeptical.  It remains that, what is possible for believers through faith are all the things proclaimed, promised, and prophesied for the people of GOD.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to the measure of divine faith that resides in you. 


And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.  (Romans 8:  28, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/01/2013) Put Every Man His Sword By His Side

      Be encouraged as we begin the first day of 2013 continuing to embrace eternal life. A writer accuses GOD of murder; and the topics of judgment and sin are discussed. Also, there is more on blessing for those in competitive sports. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Bill” (Level 2 with 268 points, a member since October 22, 2010) posted the following:



Why does God tell Moses to have a bunch of people murdered in Exodus 32: 27?

I'm more of a New Testament guy but am currently reading the Old Testament. I'm shocked to have just read Exodus chapter 32 verse 27.

" And he said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Put every man his sword by his side, and go in and out from gate to gate throughout the camp, and slay every man his brother, and every man his companion, and every man his neighbour.

verse 28 "And the children of Levi did according to the word of Moses: and there fell of the people that day about three thousand men"

So what is up with this---I don't get it? Thanks!

Additional Details

ok I"m understanding this more---thanks. yes after seeing a number of miracles from God a number of the Jews, while Moses was still meeting with God, were participating in activities not at all pleasing unto God, Moses asked the Jews who was with him after this and those who were with him joined him, those that did not join him were killed. Yes God would have been angry at those worshipping the golden calf, etc. as he had explicitly forbade such behavior, God probably also felt very betrayed after delivering them out of their Egyptian captivity. The God of the Old Testament admits he is quite jealous.



THE BATTLE AXE: Will GOD Bless My Team? (12/31/2012)—Do not be deceived. The games that are our national pastimes (baseball, football, soccer, etc.) are genuine celebrations of life that see camaraderie, fellowship, and solidarity. However, these should not be confused with spiritual growth, the acknowledgments of eternal life, unity, and sanctified worship. Amusements and sports are not condemned across the board as an offense to GOD (1st Corinthians 6: 12 and 10: 23, KJV). Yet, as often seen with modern politics, the advertising hype for athletic games frequently use imagery and language associated with spiritual beliefs. This is done (e.g., Hail Mary!) even to the point of blasphemy and disrespect; and the hidden influence of the Adversary is revealed, for there is no encouragement of humility, obedience, praise, sobriety, submission, and thanksgiving to GOD. The Father does not send forth Jesus, the Son, to die upon the cross so that men may realize vain hopes (i.e., desires and expectations that lack spirit content, and sacred focus), or to answer foolish prayers for selfish pleasure. While the holy writings encourage believers to strive for excellence in all that they do, and to make choice with an eye to pleasing GOD (e.g., 1st Corinthians 10: 31, Philippians 2: 13 and 4: 13, Colossians 3: 17, KJV); ones actions, offerings, prayers and worship still may come under condemnation (Proverbs 15: 7-9 and 28: 9, KJV). Even nonbelievers understand that, in Christ, religious ceremony, Sunday church attendance, and ritual are no guarantee of salvation; all are cautioned (2nd Timothy 3: 1-5, KJV). More than this, in Scripture, the impartiality that establishes GOD as righteous in judgment is proclaimed (Ecclesiastes 9: 2 and 11, KJV) as is the favor of GOD to the wise (Ecclesiastes 9: 1, KJV). To the extent men compete risking life and limb to demonstrate the endurance, skills and stamina of mortal flesh, there is no lasting accomplishment having the weight of things for eternal glory. In Jesus’ day and during the church’s time of growth through the apostles, gatherings for displays and duels of gladiator’s were continually being held in arenas and stadiums (also called “theatres”). Pious Jews and early Christian believers who did not involve themselves in the social mix of the market place, also avoided the games used to pacify the common people, criminals, gamblers, and the unemployed (derisively known as “the mob”). The Apostle Paul makes reference to the games held at Ephesus in clarifying the doctrines of resurrection, the self-discipline he himself practices, and the process of new life for a follower of Jesus (1st Corinthians 15: 12-32, KJV). It remains, the power of GOD cannot be turned to every human purpose, and even divine purposes may be frustrated through human unbelief (see Mark 6: 1-6, KJV).



THE GOLDEN ARROW: Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: (Isaiah 30: 1, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Law Not Flawed (12/30/2012); Vows and Covenants (12/17/2012); Why Did The Judges Fight? (10/19/2012); The Cause Of Unrest (01/30/2012); The Need For GOD (01/31/2012); (08/21/2011) Dispatch 13: Peace (The Lord); A Fig Tree Cursed? (10/o2/2010)



      Bill, you want to remember that GOD is revealing himself as a supreme judge above all mankind. As with the flood of Noah’s day, and the plagues against Egypt, graphic and fearful destruction comes into view, because sin and its threat against humanity is “invisible” and barely detectable except as a cumulative result of deeds (i.e., outcomes piled up over time).

      As humans we have to take in the lessons of GOD in visceral ways (through the gut, so to speak). We repeatedly fail to see the cosmic significance of our choices and deeds. It has no meaning to many of us that we must exist in a social web that embraces more than mankind, and extends over the universe.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, sin opposes the existence of divine law, of divinity, and of all Creation. Sin is more than simply a bad attitude, misconduct, naughty behavior, and sexual depravity. Sin was first realized among the holy angels; and has spread like an epidemic disease. Unlike death and disease, sin does not respond to the will of GOD, because sin does not exist as a carnal, material or social truth having dimension, form, or substance. Nonetheless, sin has direction, effect and presence. Sin is not a created thing, yet sin may dominate the will of created beings and living creatures. The divine acts of Incarnation, birth, death and resurrection by the person of Jesus Christ absolutely must occur to resolve the judgment against sin—not against mankind.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/31/2012) Will GOD Bless My Team?

      Whether GOD responds to prayer asking victory for competing athletes, and more on the perfection of the law are topics, today. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Oscar Manuel Perez” (Level 3 with 1,920 points, a member since April 9, 2011) posted the following:



May God bless Dallas Cowboys, my team. LOL, will you pray for me, lol?



THE BATTLE AXE: The Law Not Flawed (12/30/2012)—In the terms of its unique purpose, the law is perfect, and accomplishes every aspect of its divine intent (Romans 7: 12, KJV). The law only fails where we ask from the law what the law has not been designed to do. While the divine law is an inheritance for the people of GOD that establishes a level of security, the law does not automatically bestow real property (land), social position, and worldly wealth. Those who are accounted as faithless or godless may usually also be regarded as lawless. The law cannot eliminate sin; however the law may illuminate and make the presence of sin known where sin would be otherwise invisible. Law does not control and influence where the carnal mind has dominion; for the carnal mind consists of mechanical operations of the flesh (such as appetite, imagination, sensation, and fantasy), and is not subject to the Spirit of GOD (see Romans 8: 5-14, KJV). Thus, in accordance with the Gospel, the law of GOD is for those sinners seeking change, repentance and the righteousness of GOD (1st Timothy 8-10, KJV), and provides guidance as a standard of correction, rather than a rod for condemnation and punishment.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. (Romans 8: 28, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why No Answer? (08/25/2012); GOD Does Exist (03/20/2012); Idols of Flesh (03/12/2012); The Work of Jesus (03/13/2012); Gangs? (12/02/2010)



      You will probably find the answer from mature Christians to be somewhat disappointing. Blessings from GOD are provided so that believers may carry out and perform divine intent; and divine blessing pertains to spiritual rebirth, growth, and perfection of Creation. As with human warfare and struggle on the battlefield of blood, GOD is active and present during athletic competitions through the commitment and faith of the individuals that make up the units in conflict, the team or sports organization. The depth of each man’s personal relationship with GOD will shape his attitude, his effort, his obedience to coaching, and his being in sync with others.

      The answers of GOD to prayer for victory may be seen in the healing of injury, or that participants may bring to the game soundness of body and clarity of mind. Even so, the divine purposes focus upon the forgiveness of sin, the revelation of divine person, and the sanctification of both heaven and earth. A divine judgment is now in process that does not focus on human behavior and conduct, or how men entertain themselves in the earth through the flesh. The Gospel of Jesus Christ exhibits the standard for the searching of our lives; and the emphasis is upon the divine content of ones spirit, rather than diet and foods, sexual behavior, and verbal exchanges. The imparted, indwelling Spirit of GOD is not a spirit of combativeness and competition. The church and kingdom of GOD are built up and edified only by a holy spirit of cooperation.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, many say “luck” favors those who are well prepared. GOD favors those who are dutiful, faithful, holy, obedient, reverent, righteous, and wise. To the extent the games center in covetousness, ego, pride, and self-promotion, the games must be understood as idolatry, ungodliness and whoredom.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC