(11/25/2019) Moses Appearing Having Glory

Today, reply is on accounts in the Bible indicating that Moses continued to have favor with GOD, despite having been denied the privilege of entering the land of Canaan. Moses did not appear as one having place among divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit); and Moses was called to serve. There is no record that Moses was seen in vision seated or standing at the right hand of GOD as was Jesus Christ. Jesus used the parable in Luke of the rich man and the beggar to endorse the prophetic ministry of Moses. When the rich man asked that Lazarus be sent to warn his five brothers at home declaring to father Abraham, if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. Jesus affirmed, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead. Also, the Gospel of John declares that the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. It is written: 2^nd Peter 1: 16-21, King James Version (KJV): 16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. A fighter in “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID Tracy (Level 2 with 1,130 points) posted the following:

Did Moses die still having God's favor since he did not make it to the Promised Land?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said. While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud. And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. (Luke 9: 28-35, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Testimony From GOD (10/22/2019); Moses Was Not Divine (04/24/2019); The Divinity of Peter? (01/21/2019); Holy Fire From GOD? (04/27/2017); The Transfiguration of Christ (11/14/2016); Anointed, Consecrated and Installed (08/04/2016); The Body of Moses (05/11/2014); GOD Permits Evil? (05/12/2014)

“Tracy”, the apostles of Jesus could have claimed they were eye-witnesses to the forgiveness granted Moses, and the majestic love of GOD. Many Christian believers trust that Moses continued to have favor with GOD on the basis of the fact that, before his death, Moses was permitted to see the features and qualities provided by GOD for Israel within the Promised Land (e.g., the plains and prairie land; the hills and valleys; the rushing streams and standing pools of water) just as Moses was allowed to see the train of glory that followed GOD. Others are convinced that Moses continued to find grace on the basis of his appearing with the Prophet Elijah during the Transfiguration of Jesus that provided further witness to Jesus as the Son sent from the Father. As part of the vision revealing the Promised Land, we also see Moses alive and receiving the fulfillment of his own proclamations of a prophet who would come; for Moses was permitted to acknowledge Jesus as the Prophet, Sceptre, and Star who would come, raised up from among the brethren in the Transfiguration to reinforce and strengthen the Lord for his trial, and death on the cross. In his excitement and spiritual confusion from the scene, Peter immediately acknowledged the divinity of Jesus and the two prophets by proposing that three tabernacles be established at the spot so that each one might be worshiped. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and the selection from the music ministry of Wintley Phipps:

(1.) Deuteronomy 18: 14-16, King James Version (KJV): 14 For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened unto observers of times, and unto diviners: but as for thee, the LORD thy God hath not suffered thee so to do. 15 The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken; 16 According to all that thou desiredst of the LORD thy God in Horeb in the day of the assembly, saying, Let me not hear again the voice of the LORD my God, neither let me see this great fire any more, that I die not.

(2.) Numbers 24: 16-18, KJV: 16 He hath said, which heard the words of God, and knew the knowledge of the most High, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into a trance, but having his eyes open: 17 I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth. 18 And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly.

(3.) Romans 8: 29-31, KJV: 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. 31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

(4.) Exodus 34: 28-35, KJV: 28 And he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he did neither eat bread, nor drink water. And he wrote upon the tables the words of the covenant, the ten commandments. 29 And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses’ hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him. 30 And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him. 31 And Moses called unto them; and Aaron and all the rulers of the congregation returned unto him: and Moses talked with them. 32 And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh: and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him in mount Sinai. 33 And till Moses had done speaking with them, he put a vail on his face. 34 But when Moses went in before the Lord to speak with him, he took the vail off, until he came out. And he came out, and spake unto the children of Israel that which he was commanded. 35 And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses’ face shone: and Moses put the vail upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OzpQF97zU8.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:20 AM, November 25, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/3b/6a/a0/3b6aa0bd991ebf5cada8b2d648d9a9b1.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/22/2019) The Testimony From GOD

The image depicts the Spirit of Prophecy using Moses and Elijah with Jesus at the transfiguration of Christ

Today, reply is on converting others, prophecy, the duty of believers, and the testimony serving as witness from divinity to mankind. The disciples of Jesus are commanded and ordained to proclaim the gospel from GOD to others on the earth. However, rather than a process of verbal exchanges among men, humans lecturing one another, or the divine voice being heard from mountains and from the sky, on earth, the testimony of GOD is shared as an embodiment of spirit content from divinity whereby the living are made Christ-like. Because words whisper and actions shout, believers are to display through their lifestyles and daily routines the spirit substance they contain, and do not serve only by sacred practice (e.g., fasting, praise, prayer, prophecy, suffering). It is written: 1^st Corinthians 12: 3, King James Version (KJV): 3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

Do Christians have a duty to attempt to persuade non-believers to convert to Christianity?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. (Mark 13: 11, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Presence of GOD (04/02/2019); Bible Language About Spirit? (06/13/2018); Possibilities Through “Active Presence” (04/30/2018); Divine Holiness and Sanctity (12/25/2017); An Incarnation of Divinity? (10/12/2017); Conversion is by GOD? (08/23/2016); All Who Read Convert? (10/10/2014); Not Told in Advance? (10/11/2014)

“Anonymous”, Christian beliefs are not shared as a matter of influencing others, manipulation, and persuasion. Christian believers all are to acknowledge that they have been called and recruited to minister sacred knowledge, spirit gifts, and divine substance on the earth. The finite human tools for such academic and secular focus as argument, debate, carnal reason, and critical thinking may not be relied on for growth and nourishment of ones life essence (breath, spirit, word imparted from the makeup of divinity). Emotions, intellect, and logic are not enough to transform consciousness and self-will (willpower) within the living. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness must be received as fresh deposits and endowments from GOD. Included are faith, forbearance, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The testimony from GOD who remains unseen is not merely an authoritative eyewitness account, proclamation, or statement of plain truth; the testimony is an active presence, and we say, an abiding, indwelling Spirit (the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Holy Spirit; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth). With this in view, the birth, death on the cross, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus testify that the operations, purpose, and substance of divinity must be known through spirit existing within ones own character and nature. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 2: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

(2.) Romans 8: 15-17, KJV: 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

(3.) 1^st John 5: 9-13, KJV: 9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. 10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. 11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the testimony of mankind can be “the Lord is my shepherd”, because the testimony of GOD has been, “This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.”, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s28s0_pAnRY&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLMTSzGiuTABz_u7Lqbc7AF8&index=6&t=0s.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 2:50 PM, October 22, 2019 @ https://aleteiaen.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/web-saint-aug-06-transfiguration-public-domain.jpg?quality=100&strip=all&crop=0px%2C38px%2C760px%2C374px&resize=620%2C310

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/06/2019) Jesus Had GOD's Approval

Today, reply is on the sacred knowledge and process among Christian believers whereby Jesus Christ is accepted as having been approved of GOD. Believers in Jesus as their Redeemer and Savior choose to exist as life companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity. Thus, it is written: 1^st John 5: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. 2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? 6 This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth. 7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. 8 And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. 9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. 10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Brother Virgil” (Level 1 with 129 points, a member since May 26, 2019) posted the following:

How do we know that Jesus had God’s approval?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said. While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud. And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen. (Luke 9: 28-36, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Nothing Impossible For GOD? (04/07/2019); One Died For All (04/05/2019); How GOD Speaks Today (12/10/2018); Sinners Must Become Convicted (11/27/2018); The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); Knowing the Invisible GOD (09/17/2017); How To Know GOD? (12/12/2016); The Transfiguration of Christ (11/14/2016)

“Brother Virgil”, because Christians are to “know” by faith, by works, and by the seals divinity places upon them, here are some points on divine fullness (i.e., Deity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) from the Bible along with some of the ideas I would pass on to my own sons and heirs:

1. Acts 2: 22-24, King James Version (KJV): 22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: 24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

2. The appearance of divinity on the earth as Jesus Christ using flesh and the form of mankind (we say, the Incarnation) requires (1) humanity that is authentic through birth, aging, suffering, death, resurrection, and final judgment; (2) a display of personhood that is genuine through patterns of appetite, awareness, emotion, independence, mind, sensation, and finite self-will (willpower); (3) a recognizable endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) imparted to mankind from the substance of the Creator as well as (4) a continuous presentation of the inseparable meanings, standards, and values that project a visible image of GOD who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible.

3. Isaiah 55: 10-12, KJV: 10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. 12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

4. Accord among the Godhead acknowledges multiple streams of sacred substance that express divine prerogative, eternal purpose, truth, and sovereign will. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

5. Deuteronomy 18: 21-22, KJV: 21 And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken? 22 When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.

6. Romans 14: 17-19, KJV: 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. 19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

7. Assurances, discernment of divine presence, and “knowing” (i.e., being certain; being convicted; being sure) emerge by the continuity, confluence, exchange, and interaction of diverse elements describing godly consciousness. Included are doctrine, sacred events (we say, miracles), sacred law, sacred practices (we say, sacraments), praise, prayer, promises, prophecy, oral traditions, spiritual songs, and holy writings.

8. John 14: 10-12, KJV: 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.

9. All who are turned to divinity for sacred knowledge in place of finite human information and secular knowledge are in a process with GOD to receive conclusive declaration following ongoing service. Believers are to watch, wait, witness, and work as divinity provides expressions of consecration (we say, grace, faith, patience, revelation).

10. Ezekiel 12: 22-27, KJV: 22 Son of man, what is that proverb that ye have in the land of Israel, saying, The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth? 23 Tell them therefore, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will make this proverb to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel; but say unto them, The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision. 24 For there shall be no more any vain vision nor flattering divination within the house of Israel. 25 For I am the LORD: I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall be no more prolonged: for in your days, O rebellious house, will I say the word, and will perform it, saith the Lord GOD. 26 Again the word of the LORD came to me, saying. 27 Son of man, behold, they of the house of Israel say, The vision that he seeth is for many days to come, and he prophesieth of the times that are far off. 28 Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; There shall none of my words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord GOD.

11. Things known by faith are to become affirmed on the basis of their completion; their fulfillment; the appearance of peace as the resolution of conflict and the settlement of disputes through the application of sacred law; the disclosure of immutable conditions and unchanging operations that will remain unseen, yet, have existed before the foundation of heaven and earth; and the things proclaimed and possible with GOD being made actual before the living.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 12. Correctly understood, the device of father/son relationship is used to establish a consciousness of divine process that is to be fruitful among created beings and living creatures. There are no issues of conflicting authorities, persons within the Godhead opposing one another, or multiple deities requiring each other’s actions and approval to manifest their own personhood. Also, 13. John 10: 17-18, KJV: 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:09 PM, June 05, 2019 @ https://fewox.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/son-of-god.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/20/2016) Different Form, Same Relationship?

 

Today, points are shared on the two forms of Jesus Christ in the heaven and upon the cross.  Where the Apostle John (called the Revelator) details the figure of Christ, he does not seem to describe the same person he saw upon the earth.  Similarly, when Satan challenged Christ in the mount of temptation, the Adversary did not appear to recognize him as the same one who had authority in the heaven.  For Christian believers, Jesus Christ is to be understood as a visible appearance of the Word using flesh as well as the perfected image of GOD that should appear in mankind.  Those who are born again are enabled by the Holy Spirit to discern a oneness of purpose, relationship, and divine substance without also having to see sameness (i.e., without a display of divine form as breath, life essence, and spirit).  The heavenly glory of Christ has been witnessed upon the earth through his transfiguration, resurrection, and ascension.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Canada) using the ID “BOLOBOLO” (Level 5 with 5,511 points, a member since January 02, 2015) posted the following:

If Jesus is God at JOHN 20:28, then who is God when Jesus is dying ?

Why, while hanging on the death instrument, did Jesus Christ cry out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

At Mark 15:34, Jesus' final recorded words were: '"Eìli, Eìli, laìma saqbachqthaìni?" which means, when translated: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

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:  The Transfiguration of Christ (11/14/2016); Anointed, Consecrated and Installed (08/04/2016); The Only Physical Being in Heaven? (06/17/2015); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Promise of A Spirit? (11/11/2013); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012); GOD in Schools? (12/20/2012)

“BOLOBOLO”, there are many points of sacred knowledge that must be examined to correctly understand the dual nature of Jesus Christ as flesh and spirit, as Son of Man and Son of GOD.  Upon the earth, the Savior, who was called the Word in heaven, was in a material form—that of a human being.  The Lord was mortal (i.e., a living creature who would only endure for a measured period), and was required to operate using only carnal, secular, and social processes to demonstrate to believers in his name what we may accomplish as the sons of GOD in the earth.  Thus, at no time was Jesus in a different relationship with the Father, or with the Holy Spirit.  In addition to inseparable spirit content from the makeup of Deity (e.g., faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, wrath against sin), aspects of divinity have been displayed and revealed through the ministry of Jesus that we speak of as immortality, immutability, permanence, and a sovereign will that is not subject to influence and manipulation.  These features have further set Jesus apart as incorruptible, preeminent, unique, and divine.  Christ was unwavering and pursued a path detailed through the holy writings that would address and fulfill divine law, official proclamations, sacred promises, and eternal purposes.  Consider again the following:

(1.)   Hebrews 1:  1-4, King James Version (KJV):  1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,  2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;  3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high:  4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

(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.)   John 1:  1-5, KJV:  1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  2 The same was in the beginning with God.  3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.  4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.  5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, 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

(11/14/2016) The Transfiguration of Christ

The Transfiguration of Christ (oil on panel),
Titian (Tiziano Vecellio) (c.1488-1576)

Today, points are shared on the faith of Jesus, prophecy, and the Savior’s preparation for crucifixion.  The transfiguration of Jesus Christ is one of the greatest divine mysteries (i.e., events from the life of the Lord upon the earth).  At a time when Jesus was being followed by crowds, yet, knew the days of cruel suffering swiftly were approaching, Jesus would be acknowledged openly by emissaries from the kingdom of heaven, further reinforcing and strengthening his faith, and unveiling his divine glory and majesty.  The early prophets received the Savior in ways his apostles and living witnesses on the earth could not do.  Living as a man in the flesh, Jesus had to acquire sacred knowledge gradually the same as you and I; and the Lord would be given evidence for the truth of eternal life for mankind.  The appearance of the two prophets after thousands of years was also evidence of divine forgiveness, mercy in judgment, and reconciliation.  More than this, the Father would speak, and proclaim his continuing love.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” whose ID is “2.718281828459045235360287471352662” (Level 7 with 124,902 points, a member since February 26, 2006) posted the following:

Matthew 17:1-8. Do you ever suspect the story of Jesus being visited by two dead prophets may actually be false?

I mean look at this this way. When did anybody in the Bible ever get visited by two dead prophets before or since? Could it be that Jesus made up this story just to make himself look holy? What are your thoughts on this?

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Baptist and The Tishbite? (02/18/2015); The Body of Moses (05/11/2014); GOD Permits Evil? (05/12/2014); To Live As a Sacrifice (03/08/2014); A Perfected Body (03/09/2014); Immutable GODhead (03/10/2014); Prophetic Demonstrations (09/06/2013); Why GOD Prayed to GOD (09/07/2013)

“2.718281828459045235360287471352662”, most mature Christian believers acknowledge that there are many points of sacred truth presented through the account of the transfiguration of the Lord.  Jesus approached his crucifixion having many concerns and was in need of assurances by the Father more than evidence from the apostles, or the multitudes that now followed him.  Consider again some of the following:

(1.)  The active presence of divine Spirit (also called, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) is first described in the account of the Creation.  In the beginning, Adam (the first pair) had direct access to the Creator.  The use of prophecy, prophetic demonstrations, and sacred events (e.g., angel visitations, dreams, miracles) first became necessary when Adam transgressed divine law, violated trust, and sought to hide, rather than confess, seek forgiveness, or ask for mercy.

(2.)  The provisions of GOD where the offspring of Adam do not complete mortality by death include translation (described with Enoch), and being taken up (described with Elijah).  Healing and restoring life to the dead (e.g., Lazarus) are practiced and demonstrated by Elisha and Jesus.  Resurrection is a temporary restoration of life specifically so that one may appear alive in judgment.  As many of the prophets before him, Just as John and many of the other prophets were slain through disbelief, injustice, and persecution, Jesus would also die as the memorial of their deaths.  Jesus is called the “firstborn from the dead” to set him apart as preeminent, not because he is the first person resurrected from the dead.

(3.)  Until John the Baptist appeared, no authentic prophet operating in the manner and style of Moses and those who followed him had been provided to Israel since the days of Malachi, more than 400 years earlier.  In the same way rule by anointed kings and consecrated priesthood became corrupt and vain (i.e., lacked spirit substance from GOD), prophecy became defiled and profane through human error, imagination, and sentiment.  The divine use of prophets as spokespersons sent from divinity, who also could petition GOD and serve as spokespersons on behalf of mankind (we say, mediators) was restored specifically to introduce the ministry of Jesus Christ as a further revelation of divinity, the satisfaction of all demands from the divine law, and the fulfillment of all prophecy.

(4.)  The birth of John the Baptist to elderly parents was accounted as a miracle demonstrating that the immutable, unchanging GOD who had blessed Abraham was continuing both in covenant and in word of promise.  John was endowed with the Holy Spirit while yet in his mother’s womb.  He was fed with the tithes and holy things from the altar in the Temple at Jerusalem.  Yet, moved by the Holy Spirit, John surrendered his inheritance as the son of an Aaronic priest to serve as the herald who would announce and prepare the way for the Anointed One (we say, Christ), the coming King.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  In the same way men receive only an earnest or “good faith payment” of their divine inheritance while upon the earth, while Jesus was still upon the earth, he received only an earnest of the glory and perfection that later would be restored to him.  The apostles who were eyewitnesses represent the mixed multitude that left Egypt with Moses and the remnant of Israel as well as and those belonging to Christ and taken out of death.  The voice of acknowledgment heard was the same as that at his baptism, and at the Temple during the feast of Tabernacles (Booths, Ingathering). )  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/04/2016) Anointed, Consecrated and Installed

Today, focus is upon the sacred benefit and enlightenment Jesus received through water baptism.  The Spirit that indwelt Jesus is called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Patience of the Saints, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Spirit of Truth.  While miracles do manifest glory, Jesus was not granted added measures of the Holy Spirit in order to perform miracles.  The Savior did not receive a fresh deposit of the Holy Spirit as sinners must do.  Rather, the Son of the highest experienced growth and transformation (we say, an epiphany) through careful meditation, fasting, prayer, and self-denial.  Later, he would be transfigured also; in both instances, without anything being added or imparted to the Savior’s person, there would be a more complete, and greater appearance of his inward fullness.  Jesus had to submit to divine operations, and had to tarry or wait for various features to appear in sequence, and at their appointed time.  Thus, the imparted spirit he speaks of for mankind is directed to discernment, growth, revelation, and suffering.  Multiple emblems are used throughout the holy writings to describe the imparting of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD to created beings and living creatures.  Included are blood, bread, breath, clouds, corn, fire, incense, oil, smoke, water, and wine.  In addition to anointing and coronation as king, the Lord was witnessed as also receiving endorsement and ordination to holy office as counselor, judge, priest, and prophet.  The fighter at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia)” using the ID “Lever” (Level 1 with 11 points, a member since July 07, 2010) posted the following:

Could Jesus do miracles before the Holy Spirit came to him? What did the Holy Spirit provide to Jesus?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:   And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:  And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.  And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.  Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.  His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.  And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.  Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.  And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.  When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was:  (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom,  And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse:  but thou hast kept the good wine until now.  This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.  (John 2:  1-11, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Miracles and The Cross (06/09/2016); Jesus Given A Divine Ministry? (08/18/2015); Called of GOD? (08/02/2015); Consecrated in Christ? (06/21/2014); Anointed? (04/28/2014); No More “Mr. Nice Guy”? (04/29/2014); The Priesthood of Kings (10/17/2012); Childlike Faith (10/18/2012)

“Lever”, until he “gave up the ghost” upon the cross, Jesus Christ was never “without” the Holy Spirit.  Mature Christian believers acknowledge that the Lord was conceived through operations of divinity, rather than through human sexual reproduction, and the simple joining of ovary and sperm.  In the years before his response at the Jordan River through the Levitical priesthood of John the Baptist, Jesus was in preparation for his own priesthood as redeemer and savior through ongoing, “low-profile” sacred operations that included home life, fellowship, meditation, participation as first-born in mandatory feast days, attending synagogue, and study of the law. 

For sinners, in water baptism, there is the death of ones inborn spirit, their spiritual burial, and their rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak.  As “new creations” from Christ, sinners must receive inseparable aspects of the divine makeup such as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Because emphasis is placed upon absolution (i.e., sin being removed by rinsing, sprinkling, and washing with clean water), many do not correctly understand that there must be permanent changes in ones character, nature, and substance.  Those “born again” must also “grow up again” to become mature (i.e., display balance, completeness, consistency, stability) by meeting life challenges upon the earth.  

More than being given special gifts for ministry, at the Jordan, Jesus was acknowledged as the Son by the Father and the Holy Spirit.  Anointing (making one acceptable and fragrant to GOD by using incense, prayer, and spiced oil) is provided to those who are sanctified (i.e., set apart to exclusively serve divinity), and those who are consecrated (publicly installed to serve divinity).  As the heir of GOD, Adam, Abraham, Moses and David, Jesus was anointed and consecrated to serve as deliverer (i.e., judge), exorcist, healer, high priest, king, prophet, rabbi, and teacher.

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, miracles are sacred events that serve as prophetic demonstrations and signs to authenticate divine messages, and spokespersons.  Miracles may appear in situations where the people lack discernment (ability to use ones own spirit content from GOD as a standard to recognize divine spirit in events, messages, oneself, other persons, prophecy, etc.).  Miracles are aspects of divine revelation that further identify those sent from GOD as genuine, continue eternal purpose, and may crystallize faith.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/02/2016) Sin Turned To Goals

Today, the discussion that sin must be personal is continued focusing on the teaching that sins should be dismissed, forgotten, and relegated to the past (we hear, cast into the sea of forgetfulness).  Believers are to be made “awake” by the cross, be witnesses to transfiguration, and be granted sight to operate with awe, humility, repentance, and heartfelt love.  Life is transformed to be eternal, and unforgettable.  Many say “sin” to speak of a disruptive condition, and peculiar patterns of dysfunctional attitude and behavior that negatively influence human affairs.  For Christian believers, sin is the transgression of divine law, and is an interruption of divine affairs that include healthy relationship between Creator and created.  Sin is not alive, discriminating, and selective; and may appear at once as methodical, random, and not well-thought-out.  Despite collusion and conspiracy, sin results in distrust, division, isolation, and separation.  Sinners must make a personal response to “own, and own-up-to” their sins that include careful reflection, clearing of ones conscience, decision-making, expressions of emotion, and systematic preparation for undesired consequences and problems.  Forgiving oneself is as much an aspect of accepting divine forgiveness as becoming “born again” and accepting identity as a new creation.  Through the accomplishments of Jesus Christ for atonement, mercy, reconciliation, and redemption, sin is transformed to serve as a continuing focus for change, development, growth, and learning, rather than an unchanging source of anxiety, condemnation, depression, dishonor, guilt, and shame.  The operations of sin become visible only through life experiences that violate covenant and relationship with divinity.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, and has no form or substance as an ordinary object in Creation.  The presence of sin operates as an influence upon awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures, however, sin can not direct, dominate, or manipulate the will of GOD.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.  And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering.  And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias:  Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem.  But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep:  and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him.  (Luke 9:  28-32, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Dry Thirsty Land (05/01/2016); Transformed by The Cross (03/23/2016); How To Measure Spiritual Progress? (04/19/2015); The Baptist and The Tishbite? (02/18/2015); Philosophical Questions? (04/17/2014); To Accomplish A Sacred Goal (04/18/2014); Immutable GODhead (03/10/2014) 

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  Sin Must Be Personal (04/29/2016)—Among those practicing alchemy and science, it once was thought that lead could be changed to gold using the Philosopher’s Stone.  Among those observing sacred practices as Christian believers (e.g., church attendance, prayer, worship), it should be correctly understood that the meaning and value of sin—that can not be eliminated or removed from their lives using finite tools such as intellect, logic, politics, and technology—can be altered by faith that is founded upon the Rock.  Even so, among the disciples and followers of Jesus Christ, many feel that, once they have become baptized, their sin confessed, or multiple prayers for forgiveness and mercy have been offered, all their accountability and duty regarding their sins have been fully discharged.  Such persons will even cling to vain hopes (i.e., expectations that derive from carnal, material, and social activity, rather than the sacred content of doctrine, events, persons, divine promises, or prophecy) and the common error that “new life” in Christ means they now may return to the old associations and practices that entangled them in sin having authority, being able to gain greater benefit, and being completely in charge.  Believers are to know that sin is characterized by deceit, exaggerated pride, and selfishness.  The “reach of sin” extends across the frameworks of time and space in such a way that, even the death of the sinner does not end or remove the ongoing consequences, effects, and influence of their sins.  Saying this another way, without divine intercession, judgment, and the second death, the damage, ruin, and upheaval caused by their sin while the sinner lived could continue for eternity.  In addition to atonement, then, there must be rebirth, resurrection, perfection, and sanctification.  Believers should be unafraid to face, recall, examine, and continually resist their sin with an eye to their goal of becoming ripe for harvest at the coming of the Lord.  Believers are to celebrate the victory of Christ over their own and the sins of others, and take strength as they continue upon the earth being yet challenged, confronted and drawn by various offenses.  The memory of sin, its agony, humiliation and pain, are to exhort and spur a believer in their efforts to deliver and encourage others, to express heartfelt gratitude to GOD, and to display true humility as the offspring of the Most High.  In the light of divine love, as in the light from the cross, the past is no cause or source of bitterness, depression, fear, and uncertainty.  The past is a tool for enlightenment.  Eternal life will always have its origins in the past, and the past has been given as the frame that is anchoring our future.  Consider again how this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Proverbs 16:  4-6, King James Version (KJV):  4 The LORD hath made all things for himself:  yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.  5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD:  though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.  6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged:  and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 6:  9-11, KJV:  9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived:   neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,  10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.  11 And such were some of you:  but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

(3.)  Genesis 28:  15-17, KJV:  15 And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.  16 And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not.  17 And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.

(4.)  1st Corinthians 15:  33-34, KJV:  33 Be not deceived:  evil communications corrupt good manners.  34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God:  I speak this to your shame.

(5.)  Numbers 32:  23, KJV:  23 But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD:  and be sure your sin will find you out.

(6.)  1st Corinthians 15:  50-54, KJV:  50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.  51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:  for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

(7.)  Ephesians 5:  13-15, KJV:  13 But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light:  for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.  14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.  15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,  16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.  17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

There is far more to be said, understood, and spiritually taken in.  (For example, (8.)  1st Peter 5:  6-9, KJV:  6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:  7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.  8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:  9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/17/2015) The Only Physical Being in Heaven?

Today, Scripture points are shared on the Incarnation, the Savior’s ascension from the earth, and his bodily form in heaven.  The writer at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia)” using the ID “chris” (Level 1 with 0 (zero) points reported, a member since December 26, 2014) posted the following:


Bible: Is Jesus currently the only physical being in heaven, or do you think he has returned to heaven in spirit form as before being born?




THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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.  Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day’s journey.  (Acts 1:  6-12, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  It Is Our Wisdom To Ask (05/18/2015); The GOD Part of Jesus? (05/06/2015); Can Man Kill GOD? (12/14/2014); An Eternal and Permanent Solution? (12/15/2014); Jesus Rose? (11/08/2013); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Promise of A Spirit? (11/11/2013); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012); GOD in Schools? (12/20/2012)


“chris”, Christian believers are to rely upon the holy writings that are a collection of answers from GOD as the primary source for responses to a question like yours, because sacred history, prophecy and revelation all must be shared.  Please consider the following:

(1.)  Deuteronomy 4:  15-20, King James Version (KJV):  15 Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves; for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the LORD spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire:  16 Lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female,  17 The likeness of any beast that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged fowl that flieth in the air,  18 The likeness of any thing that creepeth on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the waters beneath the earth:  19 And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the LORD thy God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven.  20 But the LORD hath taken you, and brought you forth out of the iron furnace, even out of Egypt, to be unto him a people of inheritance, as ye are this day.

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

(3.)  Matthew 17:  1-9, KJV:  1 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart,  2 And was transfigured before them:  and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.  3 And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.  4 Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here:  if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.  5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them:  and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.  6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid.  7 And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid.  8 And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.  9 And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.

(4.)  John 20:  15-18, KJV:  15 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.  16 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.  17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father:  but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.  18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.

(5.)  Romans 8:  22-24, KJV:  22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.  23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.  24 For we are saved by hope:  but hope that is seen is not hope:  for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?

(6.)  Revelation 4:  1-5, KJV:  4 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven:  and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.  2 And immediately I was in the spirit:  and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.  3 And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone:  and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.  4 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats:  and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.  5 And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices:  and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

(7.)  Revelation 6:  9-11, KJV:  9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:  10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?  11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually taken into account.  (For example, (8.)  Colossians 1:  12-22, 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.  21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled  22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC