(12/19/2020) GOD Made The World

Confusion and error may result by using language as a name or title for GOD that identifies divinity as associated with specific ethnic groups, individuals, and geographic locations. When reading the holy writings, the preposition “of” can appear indicating a specific origin or source (e.g., the epistle of Paul = “from” Paul), or “of” will indicate an owner (gods of the nations = “from” belonging to). Such phrases as “the God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob” and “the God of our fathers” suggest that divinity is a material property concieved, owned, possesed, and shared among mankind as ones inheritance. Today, Israel is used as the name of a modern democracy among the nations in the Middle East, the name of a foremost patriarch and heir from Abraham among the Hebrews as well as the name that was used for the Northern Kingdom (also called Samaria) that was established by the ten tribes who became a separate state when they rejected Rehoboam, son of Solomon, and refused further rule by the House of David. It is written: Revelation 14: 6-7, King James Version (KJV): 6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, 7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes” (Level 1 with 1 point) posted the following:

The God of Israel is the God of Israel. Why would you worship the God of Israel if you are a Canadian, American, etc.?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. (Genesis 2: 1-3, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Both Existence and Life (12/11/2020); The Power We Receive (11/19/2020); “What if” and “Maybe” (10/20/2020); Why So Many Churches? (10/17/2020); Jews In Perpetual Covenant? (09/20/2020); The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); Why Is Passover Important? (03/01/2020)

“Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes”, for many mature Christian believers the divine fullness we speak of as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit has created the heaven and earth as well as all that have existence and life. Existing as spirit in form and substance, GOD can not be defined using the same finite human measures used to describe insitutions that emerge through social exchange and interaction, such material objects on the earth as governments, kingdoms, nations, or the things within time and space (e.g., ages, eras, events, locations, periods). Consider again the following that presents Christian belief using language found in the Bible:

(1.) Acts 17: 24-31, King James Version (KJV): 24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; 26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; 27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: 28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. 30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

(2.) Ephesians 4: 4-6, KJV: 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) 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 10:25 AM, December 19, 2020 @ http://hethathasanear.com/images/dove-priests.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/15/2019) GOD Is With Us

Today, reply is on the process of GOD, and why holy names in the Bible are used along with titles that seem to change or become different. Many of the changes we see recorded in the holy writings are in agreement with the fact that humankind relies on the finite frameworks of time and space to maintain focus, order, and stability. While mankind has used many different cultures, customs and traditions to speak of GOD, divinity is immutable and unchanging—particularly with regard to covenant oaths, sacred judgment, eternal purpose, divine order, and the acknowledgment of spirit substance imparted to the living from the makeup of GOD. Men are not to dismiss that GOD would abide within a tabernacle on the earth for 40 years, or that the divine presence would be made known by using visible pillars of cloud and fire, the daily falling of manna, and regular observance of the Sabbath. Nor is it coincidence that the prophecies of revelation proclaim that mankind is to prepare for divinity to abide upon the earth. It is written: Revelation 21: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 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. 2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 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. 4 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. 5 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. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Carol” (Level 7 with 58,748 points, a member since January 19, 2014) posted the following:

The angel told Mary to call the baby Jesus. Another said call him Christ. A third one said call him Emanuel. What's that all about?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations. Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. (Matthew 1: 16-23, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Lost For 40 Years? (09/17/2018); Jesus Called “Almighty GOD?” (12/21/2017); The Generation That Wandered (06/14/2017); The New Testament Name (05/01/2017); The Title of “Savior” (01/27/2017); Passover After The Cross? (03/09/2016); Use Holy Names Not Titles? (08/17/2015)

“Carol”, most sinners who turn to GOD for change, correction, and forgiveness are surprised when they find that there is single, unchanging answer provided by divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the GODhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). GOD must be apprehended, realized and understood through ones own life process; and sacred knowledge must have a higher place than worldly and secular knowledge. The Creator of all that exists, the various environments and spheres of life, and the frameworks for meaning and value, makes himself knowable, known, accessible, and approachable by appearing to created beings and living creatures using multiple forms and sacred operations. The Bible is a record prepared in many different places and at different times where divinity appears through thousands of events, within thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years. Because divinity is made up of inseparable, invisible spirit substance (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, wrath against sin), communication, exchange and interaction with GOD requires the acknowledgment of active presence and spirit through such features as divine law, judgment, covenant relationship, life essence (we say, breath; utterance; word), promise, prophecy, rebirth, and resurrection from the dead.

The holy names used among mankind when speaking of divinity change in accordance with the experience and preparation of mankind, yet, GOD is immutable and unchanging. Human needs include accomplishment, customs, hope, novelty, and possibilities. Thus, the heirs of Abraham, who called GOD Jehovah and were set apart (sanctified) for divine service also were influenced by the idolatry, sorcery, and unbelief of the Egyptians until the time of the Exodus. Those who left Egypt with Moses knew GOD as “I AM.” How the people of GOD later spoke and thought of divinity also was altered by the Assyrian captivity and Babylonian exile. Jesus was challenged by both the Roman empire, and the spiritual confusion and traditions that existed among the Jews. Without initiation to the sacred priesthood, it is almost impossible to correctly see that diversity appears in place of change; and that such elements as divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD continue as though uninterrupted.

The names “GOD with us” (Emmanuel), “the Anointed One” (Christ) and “Savior” (Jesus) speak to the workings of divinity using the forms both of Spirit and of human flesh (we say, Incarnation). That GOD agreed to accompany Moses and those leaving Egypt, that a Passover deliverance was provided as a permanent figure signaling salvation, and that sacred guidance and rule were promised to the living through an anointed High Priest, judge and king (Messiah) are all addressed through the One Sent, Jesus Christ. It is written:

1. Exodus 33: 15-17, King James Version (KJV): 15 And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. 16 For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth. 17 And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.

2. Exodus 13: 20-22, KJV: 20 And they took their journey from Succoth, and encamped in Etham, in the edge of the wilderness. 21 And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night: 22 He took not away the pillar of the cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night, from before the people.

3. Hebrews 8: 1-6, KJV: 1 Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; 2 A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. 3 For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. 4 For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: 5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. 6 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Matthew 28: 18-20, KJV: 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/24/2019) Christians Are Following Jesus

Today, reply is on whether those who follow Jesus Christ also are commanded within the Bible to worship him as God. In addition to divine law that is the expressed will of GOD, the followers of Jesus will carry out, conform to, embody and obey divine principles, proclamations, and prophecy; sacred doctrine; the imperatives of faith; and promptings by the imparted, indwelling Spirit. Christ is exalted and shown reverence throughout the Scriptures using various descriptive names and titles (e.g., seed of the woman; Immanuel; Messiah; the son of man; Alpha and Omega). While the full revelation of GOD does center specifically in the incarnation of divine substance as Jesus Christ, the eternal purpose of his ministry on the earth is not to be thought of as self-promotion. Created beings and living creatures are to be aware of, discover, and even experience the divinity of Jesus from the time of his conception and being announced by an angel to the woman through whom he was born to the time of his appearing for the harvest (the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Faez” (Level 1 with 101 points, a member since September 10, 2018) posted the following:

Jesus said not to worship Him, in Revelation 22:9, Mark 7:7, Mathew 15:9. Then why are Christians not following Jesus?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth? Seeing thou hatest instruction, and casteth my words behind thee. When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son. These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God. (Psalms 50: 16-23, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: We Have To Believe? (01/06/2019); Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); By Reading The Bible? (11/18/2018); New Commandments From Christ? (06/05/2018); Avoiding Confusion About Antichrist (11/08/2017); Without the Divine Image? (10/15/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); Martyrdom and Tribulation? (09/30/2015)

“Faez”, what it means “to follow Jesus” goes beyond literal obedience to his spoken commands that are recorded in the Bible. His disciples are to appear as incarnations and members of his body; they are to display the image of GOD, and continually manifest Christ-likeness. Those who are mature members of the church that Jesus Christ has created will fulfill sacred duties and divine possibilities provided through a new relationship wherein created beings and living creatures are to permanently exist as companions to divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Sinners are to receive rebirth and exist as the new creation by containing fresh endowments of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) imparted from the character, makeup and nature of GOD. Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, sacred knowledge, wisdom, and wrath against sin. In the same way no one has to beg for what those who love them willingly want to offer and share, divinity does not have to command, demand, and require praise, reverence or worship from those who willingly follow and serve. Such things appear as expressions of gratitude, joy, respect, and reverence. Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings:

1. John 7: 16-18, King James Version (KJV): 16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

2. 2^nd John 6-7, KJV: 6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. 7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

3. 2^nd John 9-11, KJV: 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

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.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/21/2018) Completeness, Integrity And Wholeness?

Today, reply is on the integrity and soundness of divinity that must be revealed to the living in order that Deity be understood as more than an abstraction, a mental construct, and a product of human imagination.  Every aspect of the divine fullness must display completeness and wholeness.  The holy writings proclaim the honor and integrity for the multiple persons of divinity using memorable and strong language:  Deuteronomy 7:  9, King James Version (KJV):  9 Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; also, Numbers 23:  19, 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?  Isaiah 42:  8, KJV:  8 I am the LORD:  that is my name:  and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.  John 17:  24, KJV:  24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me:  for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.  While there are infinite possibilities for expression by divinity all are not “expedient” as organic process and operations that join created beings and living creatures to the divine origin, works, and source of existence.  Secular knowledge, religious doctrines, intelligence, carnal reason, and self-will (willpower) of themselves do not establish consecrated consciousness, duration, and life.  Breath from the Creator (we also say, life essence; spirit; word) was imparted to a lifeless form to make the first man, Adam, a “living soul;” and those who would have life as part of the new creation through the ministry of Jesus Christ must receive a fresh endowment of sprit substance from the makeup of divinity.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:


If Jesus is God why did he say he didn’t know the day of the end only the father did in Mark 13:32?

New International Version
"But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:  To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:  And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.  For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.  When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?  And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.  But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you:  and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.  And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.  And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;  Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.  (Acts 1:  2-11, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why Spirit Displays Personhood (06/06/2018); Divinity In Continuing Incarnation (02/07/2018); The Divinity of “Word” (01/26/2018); Thoughts On Divine Personhood (12/07/2017); GOD Appearing As Christ (12/03/2017); Jesus Demonstrated Perfected Humanity (10/29/2017); Continuing A Perpetual Covenant (08/03/2017); GOD is Faithful (12/03/2015)


“Anonymous”, for Christian believers, the appearance of Jesus Christ on the earth is to be acknowledged as the most complete revelation of the Godhead that now may be apprehended by created beings and living creatures.  The character, makeup, and process of both human existence and life require that, for divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) to be knowable, approachable, and capable of communicating and participating in continuing relationship, divinity must appear and be revealed to the living as active presence who displays sacred attributes (e.g., immortality, incorruptibility, purity, righteousness), eternal purpose, form, personhood, and sovereign will.  Incarnation is sufficient to establish multiple streams of sacred truth, yet, can not remove all the unspeakable enigma and mystery that pertain to godliness.  Where you will continue to seek GOD through praise, prayer, regular study of the holy writings, and unselfish service the following points should be helpful for avoiding spiritual confusion:

(1.)   The integrity of Jesus Christ as a human being on the earth accountable for obedience to divine law, requires that he be born of a woman, that he develop through the patterns of aging and growth, that he become adult through such operations as discovery, intuition, trial-and-error, and risk-taking, and that he complete mortality (die).

(2.)  The integrity of the Deity as Almighty GOD and the Father who will always remain unseen requires that His divine heart, mind, and will be manifest through ongoing events, sacred events (we say, miracles), binding law, prophecy (the use of agents and spokespersons) as well as the fulfillment of covenants, promises, and eternal purposes (e.g., judgment, reconciliation, redemption, salvation, the second death).

(3.)  The integrity of the Holy Spirit as autonomous and having independence requires his appearance and operation through the living as gifts, fruits (we also say, effects; manifestations; outcomes).

(4.)  The integrity of the divine fullness requires their appearance as co-eternal having oneness without sameness, and accomplishing specific divine purposes through their being in accord and joined.  There must be the use of distinctive names and titles by created beings and living creatures that provide guidance for access, exchange, and interaction.  Thus, Creator, Savior, Most High, Everlasting Father, the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth all are indicative of specific resources and aspects of sacred knowledge that must be applied, invoked, and relied upon in heaven and on the earth.  Consider again the following that uses language form the Bible:

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

(b.)  Proverbs 20:  11, KJV:  11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (d.)  John 14:   8-11, KJV:  8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.  9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?  10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself:  but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.  11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me:  or else believe me for the very works’ sake.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/14/2018) The Divinity Of Christ?

 
Today, reply is on whether the Great Commission appearing in the Gospel of Matthew teaches that GOD is a trinity.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:


How does Matthew 28:18 teach that God is a trinity?Jesus tells his disciples to baptize people in the name of his God, the Father and of himself and the holy spirit. Where does Jesus say that he is a part of his God and that all three make up the one God?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be:  but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.  (1st John 3:  2, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); Jesus Called “Almighty GOD?” (12/21/2017); Jesus Demonstrated Perfected Humanity (10/29/2017); All Who Express Divinity (06/21/2016); The GOD Part of Jesus? (05/06/2015); Aspects of Divinity? (06/15/2014); Son of Adam and of GOD? (06/16/2014); Focus of Believers? (06/17/2014) 

“Anonymous”, because we understand personhood as an attribute of divinity, as Christian believers, our ways of speaking and thinking about GOD include such elements as communication, Incarnation, interaction, names, praise, prayer, relationships, sacrifice, and titles.  Even so, our consciousness of Jesus Christ as an aspect of divine fullness (we say, Deity; the Godhead; the Trinity; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) does not result from a single statement in Scripture, a single sacred event (we say, miracle), or a single account (we say, gospel) of the life and ministry of Jesus on the earth.  The revelation of divine fullness through the holy writings must address aspects of sacred process and proclamation that occur before the frameworks of time and space, before the platforms of heaven and earth.  The holy writings, therefore, provide multiple streams of sacred truth (e.g., government chronicles, covenants, doctrine, divine law, promises, prophecy, visions), and require that sinners be apprehended by GOD (we say, born again; become incarnations of divinity) through fresh endowments of inseparable spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD that establish the possibility for created beings and living creatures to exist as Christ-like, a new creation, and the offspring of GOD.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

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

(2.)  John 17:  11, KJV:  11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

(3.)  John 17:  20-26, KJV:  20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;  21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us:  that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:  23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.  24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me:  for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.  25 O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee:  but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.  26 And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it:  that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  John 14:   8-14, KJV:  8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.  9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?  10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself:  but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.  11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me:  or else believe me for the very works’ sake.  12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.  13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.  14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/09/2018) Firstborn Of Every Creature

A depiction of Noah and the ark with animals.

Today, reply is on the meanings for “first born” and “firstborn” in descriptions and titles applied to Jesus Christ through sacred law.  Just as full divine law for created beings and living creatures addresses obedience, inheritance and the transfer from the deceased to the living of real property (i.e., land and chattel), and the offering of gifts, sacrifices and service to divinity, divine law also reveals the sacred operations for redemption, resurrection, salvation, tribunals for divine judgment, permanent release from the conditions generated by mortality and sin as well as deliverance from the second death.  Through the workings of divine law, the followers of Jesus become the new creation in Christ that will be harvested from the earth at his Advent (we also say, his appearing; the Rapture; the Second Coming).  Because he displayed and fulfilled both divinity and perfected humanity on the earth, the Son himself is called the “firstborn” and “firstfruit” raised from among the dead by the Father through his sovereign glory, grace, love, and mercy.  The writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE” (Level 1 with 224 points, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:


What does Colossians 1:15 mean; Jesus is "the firstborn of every creature" when Gen 1:27 says Adam was first "created"?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.  And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled  In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:  (Colossians 1:  12-22, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Called “The Anointed One” (05/08/2018); His Enemies A Footstool (04/29/2018); Jesus Came To Fulfill? (01/16/2018); Christ Is The Firstborn (12/26/2017); The Line of Messiah? (09/03/2017); The Heir To Abraham (10/23/2016); Word, Son, and Christ? (08/24/2016); The Firstborn, Higher than Kings? (12/18/2012); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012)


“GRANNY NORINE”, where “first born” usually speaks to birth order, for mature Christian believers, “firstborn” speaks to accountability, rebirth, and imparted spirit content for those in relationship with GOD.  The appearance of divinity in human form on the earth as Jesus Christ was to ratify multiple divine covenants, promises, and prophecies that were to be fulfilled by the seed of Adam (the first pair), and could not otherwise be made actual and satisfied by created beings and living creatures.  Included were the accords established through Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Aaron, David, and Israel as a nation.  A principle and term of covenant is established that a people of GOD (a family, collection of tribes, nation, anointed ruler) may serve as the agent, representative, and spokesperson(s) on behalf of all Creation in continuing relationship with divinity.  Redemption is required to set apart and recover the defiled fruit of the earth that are required to be destroyed in accordance with divine law.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Genesis 3:  14-15, King James Version (KJV):  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.

(2.)  Genesis 9:  8-13, KJV:  8 And God spake unto Noah, and to his sons with him, saying,  9 And I, behold, I establish my covenant with you, and with your seed after you;  10 And with every living creature that is with you, of the fowl, of the cattle, and of every beast of the earth with you; from all that go out of the ark, to every beast of the earth.  11 And I will establish my covenant with you, neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood; neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth.  12 And God said, This is the token of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations:  13 I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth.

(3.)  Exodus 13:  11-16, KJV:  11 And it shall be when the LORD shall bring thee into the land of the Canaanites, as he sware unto thee and to thy fathers, and shall give it thee,  12 That thou shalt set apart unto the LORD all that openeth the matrix, and every firstling that cometh of a beast which thou hast; the males shall be the LORD’s.  13 And every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break his neck:  and all the firstborn of man among thy children shalt thou redeem.  14 And it shall be when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What is this? that thou shalt say unto him, By strength of hand the LORD brought us out from Egypt, from the house of bondage:  15 And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast:  therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.  16 And it shall be for a token upon thine hand, and for frontlets between thine eyes:  for by strength of hand the LORD brought us forth out of Egypt.

(4.)  Numbers 3:  39-41,KJV:  39 All that were numbered of the Levites, which Moses and Aaron numbered at the commandment of the LORD, throughout their families, all the males from a month old and upward, were twenty and two thousand.  40 And the LORD said unto Moses, Number all the firstborn of the males of the children of Israel from a month old and upward, and take the number of their names.  41 And thou shalt take the Levites for me (I am the LORD) instead of all the firstborn among the children of Israel; and the cattle of the Levites instead of all the firstlings among the cattle of the children of Israel.

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/13/2017) Having Personhood Without Gender?

A Depiction of the Three Aspects/Persons of Divine Fullness: 
The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit

Today, reply is on the absence of a “Mother” among the three spirit appearances of divine person.  Without re-opening the quarrels against Mary the birth-mother of Jesus being respected with a title (The Mother of GOD), the Trinity comes into view here as a spirit entity that should not be thought of as like any ordinary human individual.  The exalted character, makeup, and possibilities of GOD must be acknowledged as on a higher plane than that of the angels and mortal men.  Many Christian believers are appalled to think that men on the earth still dare describe the sovereign over all Creation by using “weak and beggarly elements” such as gender, ethnicity, nationality, politics, race, or the amount of earthly wealth men accumulate and squander.  A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Bubba” (Level 2 with 652 points, a member since November 24, 2016) posted the following:

 

Religion: Can someone give some insight to the below statement?

If God is referred to as the Father, then who is the Mother? Serious question.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;  To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;  Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.  (Hebrews 7:  1-3, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Thoughts On Divine Personhood (12/07/2017); GOD Appearing As Christ (12/03/2017); In Order To Understand (12/01/2017); All Divinity in ONE? (11/17/2017); The Mother of GOD? (12/09/2016); The Gender of GOD? (12/29/2015); A Kindness to Mary? (04/21/2013); When GOD Controls? (04/22/2013)


“Bubba”, GOD is a spirit who does not display gender except when using human form (we say, using embodiment; Incarnation).  Spirit substance can not be known relying on finite human tools such as emotion, intellect, secular knowledge, logic, and carnal reason.   Divine spirit is diffuse (i.e., may spread over a boundless expanse without loss of adherence, coherence, and integrity), is invisible to the human eye, and is without dimension (i.e., can not be measured in accordance with patterns from the frameworks of time and space like density, depth, height, and length).  The fullness (entire array) of divine spirit substances are being revealed to created beings and living creatures as the GODhead (the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), and are not like the many material things we compare to spirit that have particles (e.g., clouds, fog, mist, smoke).  Included are inseparable spirit content from the full makeup of divinity such as faith, forbearance, holiness, humility, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Because the church is a spiritual body created by divinity and endowed with those spirit gifts, only the church is spoken of as the “bride of Christ.”

Serious answers and responses to your question from Christian believers can take many forms, for the “active presence” (we also say, breath, life essence, spirit, Word) who is GOD indwells sinners who become “born again.”  As among the three persons of the single GODhead, believers will display accord and oneness without sameness.  The inborn spirit must die, be buried, and be raised from the dead; and the sinner must be reborn having divine DNA, so to speak.  Because developing believers have a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD, Christians may be called the children of GOD, joint heirs with Jesus Christ as well as priests and kings, saints within the kingdom of GOD, and the new creation.  The reproduction of the image of GOD in mankind is a sacred process, rather than a mechanical or natural process such as we see in sexual reproduction.  What some count as the distinct expressions and traits from a mother (e.g., gentleness, obedience, patience, strength, sweetness, the ability to weep unselfishly for and with others) should appear through every member of the body of Christ (the church).  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

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

(2.)  Galatians 4:  4-7, KJV:  4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.  6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.  7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

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

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and made a part of our own spirit makeup.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 19:  7-11, KJV:  7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him:  for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.  8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white:  for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.  9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.  9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.  10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not:  I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus:  worship God:  for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.  11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/29/2017) Also Called "The Amen"

Today, use of the word “Amen” and the holy names of Jesus are considered.  All the elements for beginning and completing Creation, Judgment, and Salvation become manifest through Jesus Christ, thus, Jesus is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.  Expectation, hope, and prophecy were begun when Adam and Eve overheard the words of GOD rebuking the serpent.  As “The Amen”, Jesus is the last of the prophets in the line begun at Abraham revealing divinity through the combined mechanisms of divine law, anointed spokespersons, promise, and Incarnation (we say, the “law and the prophets”).  “The Amen” is that aspect of full divinity who participates in ongoing relationships, and establishes conclusions and resolutions among and for created beings and living creatures.  Included are covenants, praise, prayer, promise, prophecy, and rebirth.  Moses commanded that the covenant law be read and be ratified by all the people immediately after crossing the Jordan River, and entering into the Promised Land.  They were specifically required to acknowledge that these were the very terms spoken by GOD to those who had journeyed together from Egypt, and voice their own acceptance of that same covenant by saying “Amen” as they stood in convocation between Mounts Ebal and Gerizim.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Singapore)” using the ID “GANGSTERGHOST” (Level 4 with 3,111 points, a member since August 18, 2015) posted the following:

Christians, do you know what Amen mean?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And Moses charged the people the same day, saying,  These shall stand upon mount Gerizim to bless the people, when ye are come over Jordan; Simeon, and Levi, and Judah, and Issachar, and Joseph, and Benjamin:  And these shall stand upon mount Ebal to curse; Reuben, Gad, and Asher, and Zebulun, Dan, and Naphtali.  And the Levites shall speak, and say unto all the men of Israel with a loud voice,  Cursed be the man that maketh any graven or molten image, an abomination unto the LORD, the work of the hands of the craftsman, and putteth it in a secret place. And all the people shall answer and say, Amen.  Cursed be he that setteth light by his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.  Deuteronomy 27:  11-16, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Title of “Savior” (01/27/2017); Exalted By The Father? (01/26/2017); Word, Son, and Christ? (08/24/2016); The Cross Broke Every Curse? (02/25/2016); Jesus Known As Word (01/17/2016); The Name(?) of GOD (04/09/2014); The “Miniature War”? (04/10/2014)

“GANGSTERGHOST”, many Christian believers understand the word “Amen” to mean “so be it,” “truly”, and “verily”.   Acceptance of higher authority and agreement with the sovereign will of GOD are signaled by “Amen”.  Some believers recognize “Amen” as declaring “God’s will be done” or “thy will be done.”  In the holy writings, “The Amen” is used along with names and titles for the incarnate Son of GOD, Jesus Christ, such as “the Word,” “the Mighty God,” “the Everlasting Father,” and “Alpha and Omega.”  “Amen” also appears, therefore, as a divine seal and signature making sacred determinations, divine proclamations, promises, and prophecy “official”, final, enduring, and incontestable.  Consider the following:

(1.)  Nehemiah 8:  5-6, King James Version (KJV):  5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up:  6 And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands:  and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground.

(2.)  2nd Corinthians 1:  18-22, KJV:  18 But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay.  19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.  20 For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.  21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;  22 Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Revelation 3:  13-18, KJV:  13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.  14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;  15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot:  I would thou wert cold or hot.  16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.  17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:  18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.  19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten:  be zealous therefore, and repent.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX 
Washington, DC

(01/27/2017) The Title of "Savior"

Today, focus is on the title of “Savior” and holy names shared among the GODhead.  At one point Jesus confessed, “the Father in me doeth the works” (see John 14:  10, King James Version (KJV).  Here, believers are cautioned further not to center their thinking on behavior, conduct, deeds, or tasks performed by divinity.  Rightly understood “salvation” describes an aspect of existence put forth from GOD, relationship with divinity, and a specific condition among created beings and living creatures whose awareness and self-will may be dominated by sin.  The title “savior” speaks to ongoing sacred operations more than to a one-time event (the death of Jesus upon the cross), or specific functions and tasks performed by the Son of the Highest (e.g., atonement, judgment, redemption).  Through various presentations and translations of the Bible, many Christians have accepted the name “Jesus” as a Latin form of a Greek name that means “savior”.  In the Hebrew writings, the same name appears as “Yeshua” with the variants Joshua and Jeshua.  In the Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB), the Hebrew form “Yehoshua” and the Aramaic “Yeshua” appear along with Yiddish forms as in “Rebbe, Melech HaMoshiach Yehoshua Ben Dovid, Ben Avraham” (Master or Mentor, the Anointed King, son of David, son of Abraham).  “Emmanuel” (in the Gospel of Matthew) and “Immanuel” (in the Book of Isaiah) may be understood as “GOD is with us” and as “GOD is among us.”  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

Is Gods name Jesus????

Nowhere in the Bible from the Old Testament to the New is it mentioned

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee:  though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.  Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid:  for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.  Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.  And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted.  Sing unto the LORD; for he hath done excellent things:  this is known in all the earth.  Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion:  for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.  (Isaiah 12:  1-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Lion of Judah (01/22/2017); The First and Last? (11/11/2016); Salvation Only Through Christ? (01/07/2016); Relationship With Our Creator? (03/16/2015); Crimes Christ Crucified For? (11/07/2014); Both Lost and Found? (11/08/2014); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Promise of A Spirit? (11/11/2013)

“Anonymous”, it is as great an error to argue hierarchy, rank, and subordination for the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, or the distinctions among holy names and titles as it is to become entangled in the genealogies of the Scriptures.  The holy writings proclaim the names (i.e., accomplishments; deeds; reputation) of GOD, and the divine works are the basis for how Deity is to be spoken of among the living.  Many mature Christian believers understand the name of GOD used by the three divine persons when they address one another (i.e., within the fullness of divinity that we call the GODhead) is unutterable and may not be spoken by created beings and living creatures.  The GODhead must be acknowledged as a single person who appears having oneness without sameness.  Multiple operations of GOD have been carried out to make Deity knowable, known, and “visible” to the living in the heaven and in the earth.  Included are depicting the sacred presence through consecrated objects and spiritual practices (e.g., altars, atonement, candlesticks, holy fire, forgiveness, judgment, praise, rainbows, resurrection, sacrifice, holy water); appearing in flesh and dying on the cross as Jesus of Nazareth (we say, Incarnation); and the imparting and indwelling of sacred content from the makeup of GOD through baptism and rebirth.  The same aspect of divine fullness who appears as Savior through the cross appeared as Creator in the Garden of Eden, as Deliverer and Friend to Abraham at Mount Moriah, and as Judge against Pharaoh for the sons of Jacob in Israel.  The specific aspect of GOD who is present through covenant and continuing relationships with mankind is also held to be the author of eternal salvation, the head of the church, and the sovereign over the kingdom of GOD.  While we on the earth continue to speak of the Son glorified by the Father, and the Father glorified in the Son as though they are separate, there is no true division of the One.  Even so, consider the following from the Bible:

(1.)  Isaiah 43:  1-3, King James Version (KJV):  1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not:  for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.  2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee:  when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.  3 For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour:  I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.

(2.)  Isaiah 43:  10-12, KJV:  10 Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen:  that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he:  before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.  11 I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour.  12 I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you:  therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  John 17:  18-23, KJV:  18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.  19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.  20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;  21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us:  that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:  23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC