(03/03/2020) The Will Of GOD

A depiction of Isaac the heir of Abraham with his wife and sons. Isaac loved Esau, the hunter, because he did eat of his venison: but Rebekah loved Jacob.

Today, reply is on events in the lives of Esau and Jacob as having been in accordance with unseen divine operations, rather than the operations of sin. There are multiple conflicts and differences represented in the figures of Isaac, Rebekah, and their twin boys. Included are the inheritance for nomads could not include houses, land, and real estate; populations existed as tribes, not nations; faith was acknowledged and expressed differently within the households of Abraham and of Laban. Other considerations were the transition to aggressive hunting cultures from those that promote farming and the pastoral keeping of livestock; the divine practice of bestowing both blessing and curses during a single event; covetousness and the use of deceit to acquire and keep a bequest/blessing given by a family member. Events in the life of Esau and Jacob reach across time and space having been grounded in the promises of GOD to Adam and to Abraham. It was only after Jacob was given the blessing from Isaac that Jacob received a vision of angels ascending and descending from GOD. It is written: Genesis 27: 41-45, King James Version (KJV): 41 And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob. 42 And these words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah: and she sent and called Jacob her younger son, and said unto him, Behold, thy brother Esau, as touching thee, doth comfort himself, purposing to kill thee. 43 Now therefore, my son, obey my voice; arise, flee thou to Laban my brother to Haran; 44 And tarry with him a few days, until thy brother’s fury turn away; 45 Until thy brother’s anger turn away from thee, and he forget that which thou hast done to him: then I will send, and fetch thee from thence: why should I be deprived also of you both in one day? A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shared) posted the following:

Why didnt God punish Jacob for decieving his father and seeking his blessing?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And it came to pass, as soon as Isaac had made an end of blessing Jacob, and Jacob was yet scarce gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, that Esau his brother came in from his hunting. And he also had made savoury meat, and brought it unto his father, and said unto his father, Let my father arise, and eat of his son’s venison, that thy soul may bless me. And Isaac his father said unto him, Who art thou? And he said, I am thy son, thy firstborn Esau. And Isaac trembled very exceedingly, and said, Who? where is he that hath taken venison, and brought it me, and I have eaten of all before thou camest, and have blessed him? yea, and he shall be blessed. And when Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry, and said unto his father, Bless me, even me also, O my father. And he said, Thy brother came with subtilty, and hath taken away thy blessing. And he said, Is not he rightly named Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath taken away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me? And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made him thy lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with corn and wine have I sustained him: and what shall I do now unto thee, my son? And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me, even me also, O my father. And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept. (Genesis 27: 30-38, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Irrevocable Gifts and Callings? (12/29/2019); Jacob Wrestled With GOD? (09/26/2018); A Second Sacred Pair (06/29/2018); Inheritance Must Become Commitment (05/15/2017); The Heir To Abraham (10/23/2016); Blessing and Inheritance from Abraham? (06/05/2014); On Christians Executing Judgment (06/06/2014)

“Anonymous”, the accounts regarding Esau and Jacob do not speak of quarrels about birthright, sibling rivalry and inheritance, nor are they intended to praise the twins as individuals, or report their human achievements and merit. These things detail prophetic demonstrations that pertain to the outworking of divine grace, sacred promises, redemption, and salvation; and are only through the operations of divine will, not the will of mankind. Thus, for Christians, the accounts of Esau and Jacob give a picture of GOD continuing eternal purpose, determining the inheritance of the priesthood that was granted to Adam and to Abraham, exercising divine prerogative, and fulfilling sacred sovereignty. Rather than condemnation by GOD, the focus of sacred knowledge and the major themes in Christian life are to be the display and revelation by GOD of the character and makeup of divinity. Otherwise unknown and unseen features of divine fullness should appear including forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, love, mercy in judgment for those who are sinners, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin as well as unchanging commitment. The Creator has bestowed multiple gifts on Creation that make possible agreement and understanding between immortal, incorruptible, invisible GOD and finite mankind. Many realize their need, and begin their relationships with divinity by turning away from sin and focusing on repentance. In error, they may continue inviting and listening to critics and those who stir feelings of guilt, self-condemnation, inadequacy, and spiritual confusion, rather than the things of new life. Believers are to embrace discovery, gradual growth, learning, study, unselfish service, and suffering. Developing Christian believers are not to continue as members within the church having guilt, punishment, and shame for sin as their primary concerns. Correctly understood, those “born again” are to remain on the earth, and become mature (we also say, grow up again; become ripe) for harvest by Jesus Christ at his appearing. As those containing a fresh endowment of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD, developing Christians are to exist on the earth as the children of GOD, joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, and the new creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Genesis 25: 19-24, King James Version (KJV): 19 And these are the generations of Isaac, Abraham’s son: Abraham begat Isaac: 20 And Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah to wife, the daughter of Bethuel the Syrian of Padanaram, the sister to Laban the Syrian. 21 And Isaac intreated the LORD for his wife, because she was barren: and the LORD was intreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived. 22 And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If it be so, why am I thus? And she went to enquire of the LORD. 23 And the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger. 24 And when her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb.

(2.) Genesis 25: 27-34, KJV: 27 And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field; and Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents. 28 And Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of his venison: but Rebekah loved Jacob. 29 And Jacob sod pottage: and Esau came from the field, and he was faint: 30 And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me, I pray thee, with that same red pottage; for I am faint: therefore was his name called Edom. 31 And Jacob said, Sell me this day thy birthright. 32 And Esau said, Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me? 33 And Jacob said, Swear to me this day; and he sware unto him: and he sold his birthright unto Jacob. 34 Then Jacob gave Esau bread and pottage of lentiles; and he did eat and drink, and rose up, and went his way: thus Esau despised his birthright.

(3.) Romans 9: 7-16, KJV: 7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. 8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. 9 For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. 10 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) 12 It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. 13 As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated. 14 What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. 15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 16 So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, consider the following from the music ministry of The King's Heralds (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXOC3r0aMkY). 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

(06/20/2019) Why Jesus Comes Back

Today, reply is on why politics, errors among Christian believers, and issues of American government are not the reasons Jesus Christ will return to the earth. The promises of GOD and published prophecy will not be erased, and will not remain unfulfilled. The kingdom of GOD is a monarchy having a single, ruler as sovereign over all. Those who belong to Jesus Christ through operations of sacred truth and Spirit acknowledge that influence and process within the kingdom of GOD are very different than that for America, and the many other modern nation states. The makeup and operations of divinity are such that even present day followers of Jesus may be certain of commanded expectations (we say, hope), divine law, outcomes in tribunals of judgment, sacred proclamations, promises, prophesies, eternal purpose, revelation, and the inseparable aspects of Spirit now residing within mankind imparted from the GODhead. It is written: 2^nd Corinthians 4: 17-18, King James Version (KJV): 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Duck” (Level 7 with 45,233 points, a member since July 28, 2010) posted the following:

Does Jesus need to come back to set His followers right, so they'll stop supporting people like Trump?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. (Revelation 21: 1-5, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To Be Jesus’ Sheep (06/10/2019); Recognizing The End Times (04/16/2019); His Words About Returning (12/02/2018); Preparing For The Rapture (11/09/2018); A Short Time Left (10/30/2018); Proper Training For Belief? (01/10/2018); Christ Is The Firstborn (12/26/2017); Installing The New President (01/20/2017); Storms to Punish America? (09/08/2017)

“Duck”, developing and mature Christian believers are encouraged to maintain godly lifestyles and daily routines that will be acceptable to Jesus Christ whenever he might return to harvest the earth (we say, Advent; the Rapture; the soon coming; the Second Coming). No exact day or hour of his coming has been provided; however, it has already been proclaimed and recorded within the holy writings that Jesus definitely will return to receive to himself all those past and present (i.e., from the time of Adam to modern times), who belong to GOD through the ministries of Jesus on the earth, and from the heaven. The familiar crises and tragic events that appear among nations (e.g., financial collapse; global warming; weather emergencies; nuclear warfare) can neither delay, nor trigger the sacred events that are to fulfill divine prerogative, final judgment, sacred promise, prophesy, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. In this sense, the future for Christians is already set; and believers who are the new creation of Jesus Christ should entertain no fears because of democracy as a form of government; the continuing conflicts of political theory, ethical behavior, and party power that exist among American elected officials; or even the admonitions and warnings concerning End Time themes such as the appearance of false prophets, Satan, and the Antichrist. Consider the following assurances that use language from the Bible:

1. Daniel 7: 13-14, King James Version (KJV): 13 I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.

2. 1^st John 4: 1-6, KJV: 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

3. Revelation 14: 14-16, KJV: 14 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. 16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.

4. Revelation 20: 9-15, KJV: 9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. 10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. 1^st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, KJV: 13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.) 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

(05/17/2019) When Christians Weigh Abortion

Today, the reply focuses on doctrine and teachings among Christian believers that are important when considering abortion. Mature Christians will not be deceived by those who promote abortion, birth control pills, condoms and Viagra as resources necessary for pubic health and reproduction to disguise their actual goal is no more than making money by selling popular products that have questionable value. Many believers acknowledge that mothering may be contrary to a woman’s ambitions and personality, yet, it is not contrary to divine law, eternal purpose, and a woman’s sacred inheritance. In addition to divorce, entitlements, family, fornication, physical beauty, exaggerated pride, abuse of drugs and medicines, there are many topics that require believers to re-examine and weigh the meaning and value of life to the unborn child. For many years, abortions were often criminally performed in settings that were not medically sound, and methods were used that included violence against women. Prostitutes, sex workers, and women caught in adultery would be forced to destroy any egg (a woman’s seed) that might become fertilized. Crude attempts to cause a miscarriage or stillbirth were relied on that ranged from pushing a woman down a stairwell to scraping her placenta using a wire coat-hanger. The process of divinity for mankind promotes life as an immutable, unchanging purpose. Divinity therefore provides continuity and stability for relationships with the Creator in spite of the mortality of man that allows life to be cut off without warning. The careless and malicious destruction of life are understood as a form of betrayal, blasphemy, murder, rebellion, withholding glory and praise to GOD as well as usurpation. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 3: 11-19, King James Version (KJV): 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 14 If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

Why are people so against abortion? It isn’t murder?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Gavest thou the goodly wings unto the peacocks? or wings and feathers unto the ostrich? Which leaveth her eggs in the earth, and warmeth them in dust, And forgetteth that the foot may crush them, or that the wild beast may break them. She is hardened against her young ones, as though they were not her’s: her labour is in vain without fear; Because God hath deprived her of wisdom, neither hath he imparted to her understanding. What time she lifteth up herself on high, she scorneth the horse and his rider. (Job 39: 13-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Life Exists Before Birth (01/23/2019); A Lawless, Violent GOD? (11/16/2017); The Work of Forgiving (11/23/2016); The Death Penalty? (10/08/2015); Meanings That Support Eternal Existence? (06/02/2015); Babies Given A Second Life? (01/25/2015); About “The Just” (10/29/2014); Antidotes to the Poisons (10/30/2014); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013); Confusion 2013 (01/13/2013)

“Anonymous”, there are multiple themes and streams of sacred knowledge that come together when prayerfully examining the issues of abortion. All Christian believers are cautioned to “judge nothing before the time” (i.e., render no final sacred decisions against error and sin before the tribunal of White Throne judgment). Christians are entered into a broad system of belief and eternal life that begins before death wherein apprehension of sacred knowledge is to be unending. Fullness and maturity are accomplished through such features as change, discovery, gradual growth, learning, rebirth, focused study, unselfish service, and suffering.

Developing and mature believers are to be conscious of the reflections and teachings recorded as the holy writings that provide the meaningful guidelines and principles needed for accord with divinity to be uninterrupted. Just as there are differences between life and death, there are clear conflicts that must be resolved between the operations from self-will and those that accompany performing the divine will. The origin, process, purpose and substance of existence, life, and continuing relationship with the Creator are to be acknowledged as provided through the operations of divinity (we also say, divine fullness; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). There are in place sacred law and divine order that must remain for the universe to continue as we now know it.

Therefore, with the people of GOD, a charge of “murder” addresses more than simple accountability for ones own behavior. The authority, dominion, intent, and eternal purpose of GOD must come into view as aspects of covenant with divinity, and with the community of believers. In the same way parents begin their communications, relationships, and responsibilities for their child before its actual birth, GOD endows a developing child with personhood and other inseparable aspects of his own makeup. Included are faith, holiness, joy, meekness, and righteousness. The earth and Creation have been put forth by divinity, and their duration is on the basis of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD, not simply mechanical process and natural laws. The world has been created by mankind as a finite system for communication, exchange, interaction and survival. While death will stop a sinner from continuing to commit sin, the consequences for their sin among the living may continue as a challenge and an unseen influence for as many as four generations (160 years). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Psalms 115: 16-18, King James Version (KJV): 16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD’s: but the earth hath he given to the children of men. 17 The dead praise not the Lord, neither any that go down into silence. 18 But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the LORD.

2. 1^st Timothy 2: 13-15, KJV: 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.

14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

3. Psalms 127: 3-5, KJV: 3 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. 4 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. 5 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

4. Psalms 139: 11-18, KJV: 11 If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. 12 Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. 13 For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. 14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. 15 My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16 Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. 17 How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! 18 If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Jeremiah 1: 5-10, KJV: 5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. 6 Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. 7 But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. 8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD. 9 Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. 10 See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.) 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

(05/16/2019) The Fall of Mankind

A depiction showing Adam, Eve, and the Serpent as the prophecy was spoken of mankind’s victory to be achieved through Jesus Christ (see reference below).

Today, reply is on the sacred meaning and value for the account of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit. Some become distracted thinking the holy writings that speak to male and female differences in relationship with GOD are focused on sexual behavior. No complaint appears in Scripture because mankind expresses sexuality; rather, men are charged regarding the righteousness of their service and worship. In the accounts of Creation, both the completeness of divinity and the completeness of mankind come into view. By seeking divine benefit and privilege through a material object and an act of self-will, the life essence (breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD that was deposited within the first pair became defiled. By their actions, Adam and his mate violated the accord with GOD, and rejected their original condition and covering in place as their justification, their relationship with divinity. Thus, it is written: Romans 1: 18-25, King James Version (KJV): 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

Isn't it obvious the Adam and Eve story is about sex and not eating a fruit?

It is about having sex.

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, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Purposes Are Unchanging (04/22/2019); Satisfying Creation and Law (01/22/2019); The Priesthood of Adam (11/02/2018); Fashioned From The Rib (10/05/2018); Divine Priesthood on Earth (01/31/2018); Clothed In Divine Light? (08/02/2017); Why Clothing? (10/15/2010); Known by GOD?(10/16/2010)

“Anonymous”, many make the mistake that the account of Adam and Eve is intended to condemn sexual intimacy, and are quick to speak of “original sin.” The loss of innocence described is not speaking of ones virginity. True, the account does speak of appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual desire) that is a part of human life from birth to death, and that can not be controlled directly through intellect, logic and reason. Also for those lacking consciousness of things that are sacred, the word “naked” may trigger the false impression that lust and sexual activity are the most important topics, there. Among Christian believers, the account of Adam and Eve reveals sacred knowledge centering on divine law and the operations of divinity, rather than secular knowledge, natural law, and the operations of the flesh. The fall of Adam pertains to multiple sacred themes appropriate for knowing and being in relationship with divinity. Included are the full character, makeup and substance of humanity (mankind); divinity as the origin of knowledge and truth, rather than human actions, emotions, and mind; being held accountable for ones own actions and choices; the transgression of divine law, the frustration of eternal purpose, and the removal of opposition to divine will (we say, the beginnings of sin and its elimination); the corruption of continuing relationship between the Creator and the created; the introduction of death and mortality; the proclamations, promises, and prophecies provided as comfort and encouragement to mankind; and the final transformation of mankind to exist as an immortal, incorruptible companion to GOD. Operations to be carried out by the divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) come into view that include the life, ministry and death of Jesus Christ. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Genesis 3: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. 6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. 7 And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.

2. Genesis 3: 9-15, KJV: 9 And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? 10 And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself. 11 And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat? 12 And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. 13 And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. 14 And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: 15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

3. 1^st Timothy 2: 13-15, KJV: 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Romans 8: 5-9, KJV: 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:41 PM, May 15, 2019 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidqVQkfYMxHrcWd7q2HoEB1mxVB-l9WfwnkMQut1kEjmDAvuxfGn9mqJ3gobBKYJ_dFdLJlAoGxhzgilqHsDB5Ix1P1NIim5Wl2PrIvnX0i1A7SQ1nae-QXItXTu2EsNI9pDzr01Mynvoo/s1600/Fall+of+Man.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/28/2019) Accounts To Reveal Divinity

Today, reply is on recognizing the spiritual themes provided by the ministry of Jesus Christ that appear within most Bible accounts. Always uppermost are such content as sinners receiving rebirth whereby they will exist as children of GOD and joint heirs with Jesus Christ; the Incarnation of divinity; the permanent change and transformation of mankind to be life companions of immortal, incorruptible divinity; believers displaying the character, nature and substance of Jesus (we say, Christ-likeness); final judgment; the resurrection of Jesus following his death on the cross; and eternal life. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Why did Jesus tell Judas not to give money to poor people?

Mary took a litre of costly perfumed oil made from genuine aromatic nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and dried them with her hair; the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.

Then Judas the Iscariot, one of his disciples, and the one who would betray him, said, "Why was this oil not sold for three hundred days' wages and given to the poor?"

Jesus said, "Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me." John 12:5

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. (Romans 15: 4, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: GOD Is With Us (03/15/2019); Called “The Anointed One” (05/08/2018); Not A Financial Transaction (01/28/2018); The Answer From GOD (05/19/2017); Laws Favoring the Poor? (03/06/2017); Warnings Against Forgetting GOD? (02/16/2017); Anointed, Consecrated and Installed (08/04/2016); The Practice of Forgiveness (07/03/2016); Anointed? (04/28/2014); No More “Mr. Nice Guy”? (04/29/2014)

“Anonymous”, there are multiple streams of sacred knowledge and eternal purpose that flow together in the single account of Jesus Christ being anointed by a woman while the Savior was a guest in the home of a Pharisee. The thinking of a developing believer must go beyond the elements that are carnal, material, and social. Insisting that the demands of covenant law be exalted, many of the Pharisees became expert advocates of “the law and the prophets” without acknowledging the Spirit of Prophecy (we also say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Holy Spirit; the Spirit of Truth). The people were encouraged to be indifferent to the events, promises, and requirements recorded as prophecy. His coming death on the cross through crucifixion was increasingly a recurring theme of Jesus’ private discourse with his apostles; however, Christ continued to be constrained in how much he could say by the process of revelation that required discovery, gradual growth, and perception through operations by the Spirit. Acting to display love, and obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit, the woman correctly acknowledged Jesus to be Messiah and the One Sent from GOD to fulfill the Scriptures describing his death as the Lamb of Sacrifice. The primary goal and objective of Christ appearing was not a deliverance of Israel from Roman culture, government, and politics like that provided to separate the 12 tribes from Egypt; nor was the Anointed One to usher in a new “golden age” wherein Israel would receive prosperity, riches and wealth. In the same way mortality and death are aspects of the life process for mankind, poverty is to continue as a challenge and condition that calls forth gratitude, humility, lovingkindness, respect to GOD, and unselfish service. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Matthew 16: 13-17, King James Version (KJV): 13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.

2. Luke 6: 30-38, KJV: 30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again. 31 And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. 32 For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them. 33 And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same. 34 And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. 35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. 36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. 37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Luke 7: 44-50, KJV: 44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/22/2016) The Cross and Today

Focus, today, is upon The Passion Live, and similar entertainment programs broadcast to celebrate and remember the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Be not deceived.  GOD’s message for mankind’s salvation now must compete against amusements, diversions, and pastimes that are often very colorful, filled with exciting images, and rich in detail.  Even so, they serve as poor substitutes for preaching that conveys the power of the cross, and direct instruction from the holy writings that impart the Holy Spirit.  The disciples and followers of Jesus Christ are to experience permanent changes in their character, nature, and spirit content.  The process for this used by divinity is described as rebirth that must be intimate, organic, and personal.  Eternal purposes must be established along with faith, joy, respect and trust.  The impact of Internet, motion pictures, televangelism, and other public media events often are surface, and does not endure.  Viewers should not trust such 5 to 90 minute programs to provide complete and full sacred knowledge.  The work may be tainted because everyone (i.e., the full cast, camera men, sound specialists, writers, etc.) involved may not be anointed and endowed as believers in Christ.  The sacred message may be altered and edited with precious aspects omitted and overlooked.  More than this, just as small children master reciting their ABCs, yet, still can not create the combinations and permutations for reading and writing, casual viewers are encouraged to feel they have finally have been given all the information about Christ that they will ever need, yet, remain lacking in necessary knowledge concerning Advent, judgment, eternal life, and the second death.  Consider again the following Scriptures, and the presentation below:

1st Corinthians 3:  11-15, King James Version (KJV):  11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.  12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;  13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest:  for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.  14 If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.  15 If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss:  but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Matthew 16:  21-24, KJV:  21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.  22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord:  this shall not be unto thee.  23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan:  thou art an offence unto me:  for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.  24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

2nd Corinthians 5:  7, KJV:  7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

1st Corinthians 3:  1-3, KJV:  1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.  2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat:  for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.  3 For ye are yet carnal:  for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?

The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “BiEn Galas” (Level 1 with 104 points, a member since January 28, 2015) posted the following:

WHY IS THE PASSION LIVE USING A MODERN SETTING?

Shouldn't it be set during the time of Jesus?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,  According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:  Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises:  that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.  And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;  And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;  And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.  For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.  Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure:  for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:  For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.  (2nd Peter 1:  2-11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Cross and Eternity (03/21/2016); The Cross and Resurrection Sunday? (03/16/2016); On Wearing Sports Jerseys? (11/20/2015); Are Holidays Bad? (11/16/2013); Denying GOD by Eating Shrimp? (11/17/2013); Can GOD Die? (05/14/2013); The Church as a Bride? (05/15/2013); Double Standard? (10/12/2012); Family and Romance (10/13/2012)

“BiEn Galas”, many mature Christian believers tuned into the broadcast of The Passion Live as a contemporary  entertainment event using modern day language and themes to make the Gospel proclaimed by Jesus Christ recognizable, “relevant”, and “easy” to understand.  Because such productions are directed to our emotions and intellect, they often recreate displays of secular history through the use of costumes, formal language (e.g., dialect, poetry, rhetoric), exotic locations, and lavish sets.  While the intent of their performers, producers, and everyone involved may be to provide a genuine discussion of redemption and salvation through the Lord, viewers may quickly forget and turn away from such productions, because the medium (e.g., animation, DVD, Internet, motion picture) with advertising and commercial interruptions also affect and alter how the viewer decides the importance, and weight of the program’s message.

To the extent a production carefully focuses the viewer upon the meanings, principles, and values of the Gospel, one may have an experience of “baby steps,” acquiring basic information regarding salvation through Christ, and becoming aroused and engaged by sacred truth.  In the same way Moses, on his way home after work, was drawn aside by curiosity to discover the burning bush—and not by his desire to praise GOD or to pray—many viewers initially responded to The Passion as just another TV program, and were challenged to realize a peculiar expression of faith was being publicly shared.

What Christian believers are to experience and receive in their places of prayer, praise, study and worship is spirit content from the makeup of divinity, and, therefore is not centered upon finite human images, thoughts, and feelings.  Even today, 2016, the disciples and followers of Jesus acknowledge that, despite time and space, through operations of the Holy Spirit, blood and truth from the cross are flowing to here and now.  Achieving full awareness and a correct understanding of the life, ministry, death, resurrection, ascension, outpourings and sacred gifts we receive through Jesus requires the active presence of Deity.  When alert, committed, and set apart (we say, sanctified), a believer experiences exchange and interactions among the inseparable spirit substances that are the makeup of GOD.  Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

There is far more to be said, understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, the holy writings remain the most reliable resource shared by believers for sacred knowledge.  It is written:  1st Peter 2:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,  2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:  3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.  Also, Acts 20:  32, KJV:  32 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.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/10/2015) Themes of The Exodus

Covenant relationship and the full revelation of divinity are the focus, today, as Scriptures are shared on the Exodus.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “natalie” (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since January 11, 2015) posted the following:


Of the themes of the exodus, which do you feel is most important?

just curious on others thoughts. :)


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.  6 Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.  For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?  And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?  Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life:  but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons;  Specially the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children.  (Deuteronomy 4:  5-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Secular Israel? (04/08/2015); The American Covenant? (03/03/2015); Three Covenants? (06/09/2014); Let Us Make Mankind? (06/10/2014); Covenants and Relationships (01/29/2014); Salvation is Conditional? (01/30/2014); Vows and Covenants? (12/17/2012); The Firstborn, Higher than Kings? (12/18/2012)


“natalie”, here are a few points important to me as a Christian believer.  The Exodus may be viewed as a peculiar aspect of the full revelation from GOD wherein the integrity of divine utterance (we say, breath, promise, word) is the basis for continuing relationship (we say, covenant), multiple sacred operations (e.g., correction, deliverance, inheritance, instruction, judgment, sanctification), and the fulfillment of eternal purposes.  The character, makeup, and nature of divinity are shown to be inseparable elements such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, love, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin:

(1.)  Numbers 23:  19, King James Version (KJV):  19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent:  hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

(2.)  Genesis 46:  2-4, KJV:  2 And God spake unto Israel in the visions of the night, and said, Jacob, Jacob. And he said, Here am I.  3 And he said, I am God, the God of thy father: fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation:  4 I will go down with thee into Egypt; and I will also surely bring thee up again:  and Joseph shall put his hand upon thine eyes.

(3.)  Deuteronomy 7:  6-8, KJV:  6 For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God:  the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.  7 The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people:  8 But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.

(4.)  Exodus 34:  6-8, KJV:  6 And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,  7 Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.  8 And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.

(5.)  Exodus 19:  4-6, KJV:  4 Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.  5 Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people:  for all the earth is mine:  6 And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.

(6.)  Leviticus 26:  42-45, KJV:  42 Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land.  43 The land also shall be left of them, and shall enjoy her sabbaths, while she lieth desolate without them:  and they shall accept of the punishment of their iniquity:  because, even because they despised my judgments, and because their soul abhorred my statutes.  44 And yet for all that, when they be in the land of their enemies, I will not cast them away, neither will I abhor them, to destroy them utterly, and to break my covenant with them:  for I am the LORD their God.  45 But I will for their sakes remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought forth out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the heathen, that I might be their God:  I am the LORD.

Of course, there is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually digested.  (For example, (7.)  Hebrews 8:  7-9, KJV:  7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.  8 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:  9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/05/2015) Scandal and Sin Among Believers?

Points are shared on why Christian believers are not commenting on the problems of fornication and sexual sin as depicted by a popular family known through a current “reality television” program.  Mature believers recognize the same elements encountered by the Apostle Paul and spoken of by the Savior (see 1st Corinthians 5:  1-13, King James Version (KJV) and Luke 13:  1-5, KJV).  A fighter at “Yahoo! New Zealand” using the ID “Stephen” (Level 7 with 35,768 points, a member since March 28, 2006) posted the following:


Why has there been no discussion of the current scandal concerning the Duggar family in this section of Y.A.?

There are many people who write into this section of Y.A. denigrating LGBTQ people. Lately the scorn has been heaped up Caitlyn Jenner. But here we have a apparently Christian religious family who are in the midst of a sexual scandal. Their heterosexual eldest son has molested several young girls including a couple of his sisters and what did the elder Duggars do? NOTHING. In fact they are still trying to protect him and claiming the abuse was negligible. Two things come from this: 1. this pedophile (like the vast majority) is heterosexual, and 2. this is a supposedly Christian family. How about some of you good Christians take this up for discussion. And those of you who equate homosexuality with pedophilia, why aren't you commenting?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent:  for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.  Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance:  for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.  For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of:  but the sorrow of the world worketh death.  For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.  Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.  (2nd Corinthians 7:  8-12, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Addressed by the Spirit, Not the Letter? (03/31/2015); Masturbation and Religion? (02/01/2015); The Male, the Female, and GOD (02/09/2014); A Second Adam? (03/25/2013); GOD Hiding in Plain Sight (03/26/2013); Family and Romance (10/13/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012)


“Stephen” the themes for Christian conversation center upon grace, salvation, and the gifts from an eternal GOD rather than the many infirmities and weaknesses existing among the living, who are social and temporal beings.  Here are a few of the many points Christian believers maintain as their focus rather than the details of crime, gossip, error, rumors, scandal, sickness and sin:

(1.)  Human sexuality was provided as a divine mechanism for continuing life, and is mistakenly labeled as “original sin.”  So to speak, the sacred tool has been made to be a device for animal and selfish pleasure through the operations of sin.  More important than condemning others, or complaining against and rebuking sin is the work of comfort, edification and encouraging repentance through forgiveness.

(2.)  Sin is an influence that opposes the continued existence of divine law, the eternal Law Giver, and the divine order establishing and maintaining the entire universe.  Sin is no living entity; no concrete and material object; and no spirit emanated from Deity.  Sin has no measurable dimensions, yet, has direction, effect, and presence.  

(3.)  Because sin may dominate awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures, sin is routinely experienced as if a natural and ordinary feature of ones correct makeup.  Sin is not recognized as contrary to all existence, and an abomination to divinity.  Therefore, multiple ongoing sacred operations are being carried out to expose and reveal (not every individual event or all the sordid details, yet) the essence of what may be described as “sin”.  Included are admonition (we say, warning), atonement, baptism, correction, covenant, forgiveness, Incarnation, divine judgment, rebirth, and sanctification.

(4.)  As a class, Christians are those spiritually removed and shielded (we say, born again) from the overwhelming range of sins displayed through appetite, attitudes, behavior, and conduct.  Even so, many of us are still in a subtle process (i.e., barely visible; having hidden shifts in meaning and value) carried out by GOD for the living to be released from habits and lifestyles that once centered in fornication, lust, and the absence of will power for godly living.  Believers must be gradually and permanently changed (we say, grow again, mature, become perfected) through operations of the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD.  All Christians begin as sinners, who must receive the same spirit content that resides within Jesus Christ.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually taken into account.  (For example, (5.)  1st Peter 4:  16-18, KJV:  16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.  17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God:  and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?  18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith and spiritual maturity.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC