(11/07/2019) GOD Present Within Words

Today, reply is on translating the Bible into English and other languages. “Faith comes by hearing” means by comprehending, understanding, and properly fitting together the spirit content shared from divinity, rather than by reacting to noises or sounds from speech and utterance. GOD is not the author of confusion. The Bible is a collection and full library made up from fragments and original manuscripts written using multiple ancient languages (e.g., Aramaic, Babylonian, Hebrew, Greek, Latin), describing multiple appearances on earth by the pattern of priesthood in heaven, and documenting multiple covenant agreements and relationships between divinity and mankind from various regions and territories (e.g., Canaan, Judea, Macedonia, Syria), from different government documents and officials as well as from multiple sacred writers (e.g., apostles, evangelists, priests, prophets). The ancient materials must be handled carefully because they are delicate and easily damaged. Preserving the physical artifact is important; however, more important is continuing their admonition, authority, guidance, instruction, sacred law, spirit content, and prophetic vision imparted from divinity. It is written: Ecclesiastes 12: 10-14, King James Version (KJV): 10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. 11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. 12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh. 13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” pubic forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Me and myself” (Level 1 with 68 points) posted the following:

Did Jesus Christ speak English?

If Not, then Why do we consider the Bible written in English to be the word of God rather than the word of the translators?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. (Revelation 22: 18-21, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Kingdom Within You (09/26/2019); According To Your Faith (08/15/2019); The Word From GOD (12/11/2018); GOD Appearing As Word (01/14/2016); From Cover to Cover? (01/04/2016); Unclear Scriptures? (03/18/2014); Needing Guns To Serve? (03/19/2014); Translation, Please… (01/11/2013); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013)

“Me and myself”, developing Christian believers are encouraged to think of the Bible as the word “from” GOD proclaimed using apostles, elders (patriarchs), heads of tribes, judges, kings, prophets, and other anointed spokespersons, rather than academicians, politicians, professors, “thought leaders,” and translators. The letter and specific wording of sacred messages, teachings, and visions can be discrete, and separate from the spirit content that they convey and project using the exact same words. Those who serve as scribes and translators for the holy writings, are not chosen on the basis of their scholastic achievement, professional reputation, and secular knowledge. They are chosen on the basis of their sacred knowledge, spiritual anointing, commitment, discernment, experience, and maturity. They must be disciplined, give attention to detail, and obey strict rules for the work, because within a manuscript (we say, the text) many subtleties will appear (barely visible differences; sudden shifts in intent, meaning, quality, and value). Also, many of the decisions made for interpretations and what finally will be presented must be agreed upon through a process like that of “peer review.”

Because GOD is a spirit, human communication with GOD, for GOD, and about GOD must contain and deposit into others aspects of the same spirit substances that are fitted together as divine fullness (we say, the makeup of GOD; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Among mankind, language, audible speech, use of utterance, and expressing emotions and thoughts with gestures, movements, and words are human tools that allow agreement, influence on the emotional and intellectual content of others, shared focus on material objects, and social interaction.

Properly understood, the achievements of Bible translators are accomplished through operations of the Holy Spirit. Being diffuse, immaterial, and without physical form, divinity can operate within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of created beings and living creatures, and exists within the living as life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word). Where the Bible is presented in translation that uses different languages, forms of expression and meaning equal to the original direction, focus, texture, tone and the various aspects of spirit must be acknowledged and embodied so that the presence and substance of divinity to be imparted is preserved, and is not altered or changed. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Marty Goetz:

1. Proverbs 30: 5-6, King James Version (KJV): 5 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

2. John 6: 63, KJV: 63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

3. Revelation 21: 5-8, KJV: 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. 6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=se9uQrCQAe8.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:28 AM, November 06, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/236x/51/04/5e/51045ebd84fa2416c83d8d5c7c4d8bb2.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/26/2019) The Kingdom Within You

Today, reply is on choosing among and between different presentations and translations of the same Scripture. 

Identifying the divine essence, meaning, substance, and value (we say, the spirit) for what is presented can be more important than its exact repetition as a quotation from divinity (we say, the letter; the word of GOD).  Correctly understood, the dominion and rule of the Creator extends over the awareness and self-will of every created being and living creature. The kingdom of GOD that is to indwell mankind is not a material place or physical realm. Rather, it is a consciousness of divine presence, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. All Christian believers are in a continuing process of becoming mature and fulfilling their spiritual growth as those who are vessels of divine Spirit. Inseparable aspects of spirit content from the makeup of GOD are provided to sinners releasing them from sin, and making them the new Creation of Jesus Christ. Believers are guided by long-held principles and standards recorded as the holy writings (e.g., the Gospel, the apostolic epistles; the prophecies of revelation). Disciples and followers of Christ are to become increasingly aware of the things that pertain to divinity, and acknowledge accountability for their own sacred beliefs. Their choices and decisions eventually should display balance, completeness, consistency, and stability; and each believer will operate on the basis of their own commitment, discovery, fresh endowment of life essence, gradual growth, sacred practice, and self-government. It is written: Luke 17: 20-21, King James Version (KJV): 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (profile information not shown) posted the following:

“The kingdom of God is within you”, or “the kingdom of God is in your midst” Luke 17:20. Two bibles say drastically different things?

“nor will they say, 'Look, here it is!' or, 'There it is!' For behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst."-NewAmerican Standard bible

“nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you”—King James Version

The first one seems to be saying Jesus Christ is the kingdom of God. The second one seems to say we are God? Which is right?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2^nd Timothy 3: 16-17, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Kings, Popes, Priests, Prophets? (09/22/2019); Conflict Among Multiple Wills? (09/20/2019); Now Are Ye Light (09/18/2019); Heaven Speaks Using Mankind (09/15/2019); GOD’s Will Be Done? (03/27/2019); Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Proclaiming A New Kingdom? (04/13/2017); Benefits of His Kingdom? (04/11/2017)

“Anonymous”, reading the holy writings is a sacred process different from academic and secular reading. Those who are in Christ read the Bible with the understanding that all sacred truth will conform to the clear revelation of divinity made through the Savior appearing on the earth in flesh and blood (we say, the Incarnation). A reader’s consciousness must be filled by their own endowment of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness must be active, rather than merely the finite human tools of emotion, intellect, logic, and carnal reason. Included as the active presence of divinity are faith, holiness, hope (commanded expectation), joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, willingness to forgive, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Reading the Bible and other sacred writings requires the practice of discernment. The deposit of Spirit from GOD that one has received must be used as the standard to acknowledge, recognize, and correctly respond to the same authority and influence as he appears within events, oneself, other persons, prophecy, etc. Both because the Bible is a collection of writings that provide multiple streams of sacred truth, and because Bible readers are in a divine process of discovery and gradual growth, their reading of statements from the Scriptures may alter and shift over time. Therefore, developing and mature Christians focus on unchanging divine intent and principles for permanent change, rather than literal statements made within the frameworks of time and space. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. 2^nd Corinthians 3: 5-7, King James Version (KJV): 5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; 6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

2. 1^st John 2: 27-28, KJV: 27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. 28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.

3. John 6: 63, KJV: 63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing:  the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dT_SuD6Mz7M.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:25 PM, September 26, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/c8/09/cf/c809cf48e248af2a990260840b5c7d33.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/15/2019) According To Your Faith

The Evangelist Phillip and the Ethiopian Eunuch receiving the Gospel

Today, reply is on the use of faith as a standard to determine the correctness of spiritual presentations, and developing discernment to consistently grasp spiritual meaning, quality, and value. Sinners who turn to Jesus Christ in repentance are like infants and newborn babes who must come to correctly recognize their own parents and those in affiliation as family. At first there may be displays of indifference and rejection, because everyone is a stranger. All developing believers start out operating in terms other than genuine spiritual knowledge and experience, and must be built up and edified through the Holy Spirit. Redemption and salvation are not one-time events so much as a continuous and ongoing stream of events. This makes it that believers will experience discrete episodes of discovery and growth, yet, will not have complete and full understanding. Believers are able to accept a condition of partial knowledge because there is a condition of full commitment and trust. Grace has been bestowed on those who follow Christ, and serves as an earnest or “good-faith payment” of their coming transformation and eternal rewards. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 13: 9-12, King James Version (KJV): 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality, who uses the ID “Rolando C I” (Level 6 with 18,913 points, a member since April 29, 2008), posted the following:

Why does the king james Bible include Acts 8:37 ?

And other translations exclude it ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. (Hebrews 4: 12-13, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: We Must Acknowledge Christ (08/08/2019); The Requirements for Relationship (06/30/2019); Recognizing Holy and Unholy (01/31/2019); We Have To Believe? (01/06/2019); The Word From GOD (12/11/2018); By Reading The Bible? (11/18/2018); Knowing What To Believe? (12/31/2017); From Cover to Cover? (01/04/2016); Translation, Please… (01/11/2013); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013)

“Rolando C I”, in context, the verse you refer to presents a clear, yet not full declaration of the faith a Christian should express (Acts 8: 35-38, King James Version (KJV): 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. 36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? 37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.)

For me, the following presentation conveys the same declaration: Gevurot 8: 35-38, Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB): 35 And having opened his mouth, and beginning from this keta (section) of the Kitvei Hakodesh, Philippos began to preach and fier ois (elucidate) Yehoshua/Yeshua to him. 36 And as they were going along the derech, they came upon some mayim and the eunuch says, “Hinei, mayim! What prevents me from being given Moshiach’s tevilah of teshuva in the mikveh mayim?” 37 [And Philippos said, “If you have emunah b’chol levavcha, it is mutar. And he answered, saying, Ani ma’amin ki Rebbe Melech HaMoshiach Yehoshua Ben HaElohim hu.] 38 And he commanded the chariot to stop and both went down into the mikveh mayim, both Philippos and the eunuch, and Philippos gave him Moshiach’s tevilah of teshuva in the mikveh mayim.

Where sinners begin their return to GOD through Jesus Christ by embracing instruction from the holy writings, many become convinced that they must continue using only the exact wording and precise presentation they were first shown. As developing Christian believers, they want to be alert and on guard against spiritual confusion that accompanies the use of materials and messages from sources that may be in conflict, that are not biblical, and that have questionable origins. Rather than respond to the holy writings relying on finite academic, scholarly, and secular tools such as intellect, logic, philosophy, and science, the Christian believer is to apply sacred standards of faith and other spirit matter imparted from the makeup of divinity. Included are forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Believers are to practice discernment wherein their own fresh deposit of life essence (breath; spirit; word) from divinity enables them to recognize and respond to the same spirit substance (we also say, the image of Jesus Christ) as it appears within events, other persons, themselves, the holy writings, etc. Consider the following from the Bible:

1. Hebrews 5: 12-14, KJV: 12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Yehudim in Moshiach 5: 12-14, OJB: 12 For indeed by this time you ought to be [rabbininic] morim saying shiurim, but instead you have need again to be taught the orthodox Jewish basic ikarim (principles, essentials) of the Divrei Hashem, and you have become one having need of cholov and not solid okhel. 13 For everyone partaking of cholov is unacquainted with HaDivrei Tzedek, for he is an olel (infant).  14 But solid okhel is for the mevugarim (mature ones, adults), the ones whose keilim (faculties) have been trained by practice for distinguishing both HaTov and HaRah. [T.N. In the next chp a warning is given to the Messianic Jew who re-submits Yehoshua to re-trial and reassigns the original verdict of deceiver: no re-rebirth, no rerepentance for such shmad]

2. 1^st Corinthians 12: 3, 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.

Kehillah in Corinth 1, 12 : 3, OJB: 3 Therefore, I make known to you that no one speaking by the Ruach Hakodesh of Hashem says, “Al Yehoshua ki Cherem hu” (“a curse of the ban of destruction is on Yehoshua”), and no one is able to say, “Yehoshua hu HaAdon” except by the Ruach Hakodesh.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. 1^st Corinthians 2: 14, KJV: 14But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

Kehillah in Corinth 1, 2: 14, OJB: 14 But a natural person does not receive the things of the Ruach Hakodesh of Hashem, for they are narrishkait (foolishness 1:21-24) to him, and he is not able to have personal saving da’as of them, because they are discerned in the Ruach Hakodesh.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB). Copyright © 2002, 2003, 2008, 2010, 2011 by Artists for Israel International.

Image downloaded 10:45 AM, August 14, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/99/d8/30/99d8300d2dbb73003cae2a2ead236d00.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/14/2016) GOD Appearing As Word

Today, points are shared on the holy writings as a manifestation of divinity.  For many mature Christian believers the Bible has been experienced as more than simply another book.  The Holy Scriptures have been an incarnation (material form) used by Deity to appear in the earth.  Consider again the following from Scripture, and the points shared below:  John 1:  1-3, King James Version (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.  Also, John 6:  63, KJV:  63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing:  the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.  Romans 16:  25-27, KJV:  25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,  26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:  27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.  Genesis Pongho, who participates with me in THE BIBLE STUDY GROUP (a Public Group on Facebook presently having 22,604 members), invited discussion by posting the following:


Hello Ankongnda Valery,do you know that that very scriptures we read is the word of God and those who studied it did not understand when that word became flesh?The Bible will forever remain scripture to us ok?But the tell you that the person who spoke to the Romans did not quote any scripture but by the power of the spirit of his age.We are not the first to make such a debate ok?Many in the old also debated and when the creator came to them,they did not understand heavenly movement on earth because they thought they could have life in studying the scriptures.listen to what the word that became flesh told them in John 5:39-40, so know you that if you want to fight this truth with the knowledge you must have acquired from reading the scriptures and other books,it will only kill you because you will not see that alcohol is for the flesh and that very kingdom you talk of does not have anything to do with the flesh you drink alcohol.The truth is the alcohol you take,only go to satisfy your flesh and has nothing to do with your soul ok?So there is a spiritual alcohol for your soul.So which one should we take as Christians,that of the flesh or that of the soul?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.  For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:  (Colossians 2:  8-10, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A GOD Without Form? (12/27/2015); Justified for Attacking The Bible? (06/28/2015); The Words Are Spirit? (06/03/2015); Can The Bible Be Increased? (05/31/2015); Those Who Read? (02/17/2015); The Love of GOD (03/03/2013); Our Need for a Son (03/04/2013)


Be encouraged!  Your point on the Spirit nature of Scripture is very well taken.  There are many ways of stating the same truth just as we might address the same fellow as Dr. Johnson, Joseph, or Joey displaying different levels of formality and relationship.  The Bible allows us to discern, recognize, and understand things done and spoken in Spirit.  Where we insist upon the form or “letter” (i.e., precise repetition of statements that may appear) using intellect, logic, philosophy and science, we become narrow in focus, miss the divine intent, and operate having spiritual confusion.  See again John (Yochanon) 5:  39-44 in three different presentations:

King James Version (KJV):  39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.  40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.   41 I receive not honour from men.  42 But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you.   43 I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not:  if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.   44 How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?

New International Version (NIV):  39 You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me,  40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life.  41 “I do not accept glory from human beings,  42 but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts.  43 I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.  44 How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?

Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB):  39 You search the Kitvei Hakodesh because you think in them you have Chayyei Olam. And those are the ones giving solemn edut about me.  40 And you do not want to come to me that you may have Chayyim.  41 I do not accept kavod (glory) from Bnei Adam.  42 But I have had da’as of you, that the ahavas Hashem (the love of G-d) you do not have in yourselves.  43 I have come b’Shem Avi and you do not accept me. If another comes in his own name, him you will accept.  44 How are you able to have emunah, when you receive kavod from one another, and the kavod from the only Elohim HaEchad you do not seek?

There are many other points that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, While the Bible may be received as an abiding appearance of divinity, the Bible itself is not to be revered, respected as an idol, or worshiped as a god.  The task of focusing upon spirit content may become clearer for Christian believers when different versions and translations of Scripture appear.  The challenge is not to promote a single, correct presentation having fixed meaning and value for all, for the believer is not to judge right and wrong so much as receive what has weight as appropriate and useful during their temporal process of growth and learning.

1st Corinthians 13:  8-12, KJV:  8 Charity never faileth:  but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.  9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.  10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.  11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:  but when I became a man, I put away childish things.  12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face:  now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.  13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

The inseparable Spirit substances that make up the Scriptures (e.g., faith, holiness, promise, prophecy, truth) exchange and interact among themselves forming new patterns for discovery and growth.  This permits us to say, the Scriptures are alive, dynamic, and organic continually balancing and re-balancing as full truth and increasingly clearer sacred vision.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  We are having encounter with majesty and glory.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/04/2016) From Cover to Cover?

Reading the Bible from “cover to cover” is the topic, today.  For many, the Scriptures are merely an artifact from ancient times, an old, old book, and an historical relic.  They must begin to “see with new eyes” and recognize that the Scriptures are a record of deeds performed by GOD, and words spoken from divinity to benefit all created beings and living creatures.  Included are sacred law, proclamations, promises, and prophecies that deposit the divine nature within mankind.  Consider the following verses from the Bible:

James 1:  21-25, King James Version (KJV):  1 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.  22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.  23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:  24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.  25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

Titus 2:  11-13, KJV:  11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,  12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;  13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

2nd Timothy 3:  15-17, KJV:  15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.  16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Romans 10:  13-17, KJV:  13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.  14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?  15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!  16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?  17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Chris C” (Level 2 with 636 points, a member since June 13, 2006) posted the following:


Which books of the Bible are best skipped when reading the Bible cover to cover?

When we do Bible study we restrict ourselves to certain books of the Bible. I was considering reading the Bible cover to cover but have been told that it is better to skip a few books, as they may be unhelpful. Which ones do you think are best avoided and can you say why?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:   All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers.  And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.  And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.  Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years.  Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee.  (Deuteronomy 8:  1-5, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Bad GOD, Good GOD? (01/03/2016); By Faith, Not By Interpretation? (12/31/2015); In Times of Progress? (12/21/2015); Sacred Events Were Dismissed? (11/05/2015); A Correct Church? (10/05/2015); To Study the Book of Judges (09/09/2015); The Apocryphal Books? (08/07/2015); Those Who Read? (02/17/2015); Points on Bible Study (06/28/2014)


“Chris C”, I recommend you read the entire Bible at least once; however, that will serve as only a first step in your acquiring full sacred knowledge.  You may then do as many others who read and re-read the Scriptures, even exploring multiple language versions and translations.  Many Christian believers are asking “How much knowledge from the Bible do we need to be saved?” and some even ask, “Do we need the Bible at all…?”  The ancient holy writings are available to us as a fixed, and unchanging resource that can be used to bear out the continuing operations of divinity in our own lives, today.  Believers are to trust that the Scriptures have been provided by Deity as a sacred device for revelation (i.e., making divinity known, present, and visible).  Spirit content from the makeup of GOD is to be imparted to the believer.  Included are awe (we say, fear of the Lord), faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Many want to approach the Scriptures using their skills and tools for gathering secular knowledge.  They center their growth and learning upon finite elements such as human history, intellect, logic, philosophy, science, and technology.  As yet, none of those things have been sufficient to overcome and remove sin as a condition for life among created beings and living creatures.  The holy writings do provide information important for communication, exchange and interaction within the community of faith; however, we are not saved on the basis of how many books we have read, how many verses we may quote.

All in positions of leadership and trust should have a complete and comprehensive knowledge of the things from GOD for the benefit of mankind.  Included are parents, teachers, and elected government officials.  Those who will lead and share within the church are specially correct to seek a full and thorough experience of the word.  In addition to discussion and study of the Bible, they also should embrace baptism, confession, contemplation, praise, prayer, repentance, and worship.

Believers are correct to sing, “Just as I am, without one plea….”  At best, what we can know of GOD while we are still upon the earth is limited, and merely a small piece from a huge universe.  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/18/2014) Unclear Scriptures?

Making sense of differences among translations and versions of the Bible is the topic, today.  Also, there is more on greater divine effort to reach nonbelievers.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “brad” (Level 1 with 90 points, a member since March 17, 2014) posted the following:


Confusing Bible verse? 

In john 7:24 (NLT) it says: "Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.”

In the same verse in the King James Version it says: "Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment"
 
I have an NLT and it's mostly great, but what the heck is with this extremely vague passages like this one?
 
It makes no sense..


THE BATTLE AXE:  GOD to “Try Harder”? (03/17/2014)—(5.)  Nothing in all the history, or future of mankind can surpass the accomplishment of salvation and eternal life through Jesus Christ.  It is not that GOD must change; sinners must undergo change (called repentance) that is only accomplished through operations of GOD.  The truth never changes, however, for created beings and living creatures, acceptance, discernment, obedience, and understanding of truth may change.  GOD is a living entity whose makeup is entirely of spirit matter that cannot be apprehended and known by created beings and living creatures as they rely upon material and physical objects, or repetitive natural processes not having awareness that is focused and shaped to continuously acknowledge spirit substance.  The active presence of GOD is revealed and shown through sacred events and operations carried out using appearances of divinity as an incarnate, sovereign agent (we say, Jesus, the Son of GOD), and a dynamic essence (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  As eternal, fixed, and permanent truth, the revelation of GOD is immutable, and will not change.  Saying this another way:  GOD’s will, and GOD’s way are complete, established, and finished.  For the earth, there are yet things proclaimed, promised, and prophesied that have not come to pass, that are now going forward in the continual process of GOD.  Such events as the harvesting of believers from the earth, and the resurrection of the wicked for judgment will certainly take the nonbeliever to “new heights.”  However, those elements go beyond salvation of sinners, and speak to concluding and resolving the full mystery of GOD.  Salvation requires agreement and correspondence of both flesh and spirit, and only results when consciousness and self-will in the living (we say, attention, effort, and willpower) are properly directed to GOD.  Consider again Isaiah 55:  6-13, Romans 10:  2-4, and Acts 16:  25-34, King James Version.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And Samuel did that which the LORD spake, and came to Bethlehem.  And the elders of the town trembled at his coming, and said, Comest thou peaceably?  And he said, Peaceably:  I am come to sacrifice unto the LORD:  sanctify yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice.  And he sanctified Jesse and his sons, and called them to the sacrifice.  And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the LORD’S anointed is before him.  But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him:  for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.  Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this.  Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by.  And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this.  Again, Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel.  And Samuel said unto Jesse, The LORD hath not chosen these.  And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are here all thy children? And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him:  for we will not sit down till he come hither.  And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to.  And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him:  for this is he.  Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren:  and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward.  So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.  (1st Samuel 16:  4-13, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Right Place to Get Knowledge (02/17/2014); Arguing Against the Bible in Church? (02/18/2014); Lower-case or Capital? (01/31/2014); Sprinkled, Immersed, Named? (02/01/2014); Why Bother to Read? (10/31/2013); GOD Speaking Through Songs? (11/01/2013); Words Spoken By GOD? (06/05/2013); Teachings on Judgment (06/06/2013); What to Take Literally (03/11/2013); A GOD of War? (03/12/2013)


“brad”, for Christian believers, who have submitted to GOD through baptism (i.e., death of their inborn spirit nature, and rebirth having divine DNA), learning from the Bible requires multiple readings, and many gradual shifts of ones understanding.  In this sense, learning Scripture is a lifetime experience like getting to know a totally different language and culture.

The holy writings are themselves spirit matter, and must add to, refresh, and make visible otherwise hidden spirit matter contained within believers.  The aspect directed to our intellect is “the tip of the iceberg” so to speak.  For we are now vessels containing divinity.

Bible accounts, historical narratives, parables, and proverbs are not anecdotes, fictions or stories intended for amusement and entertainment.  When believers use multiple translations and versions of Scripture for their studies, they must be prepared to make determinations of application, meaning, and truth-value on the basis of agreement and consistency with revealed divine operations, eternal purpose, and sacred practice.

Certainly, there is a lot more to be said, correctly applied, thoroughly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, salvation for the living results by interactions of flesh and divine spirit.  High things of GOD are displayed and imparted in figures, and terms that may be easily recognized among those upon the earth, no matter what climate, culture, or language group the are in.  Common sense, then, is usually enough to clarify and explain many issues; and a reader need only be patient.  More difficult obstacles and problems are overcome through continued fellowship with mature believers, further reflection, prayer, and continued study.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? if any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ’s, even so are we Christ’s.  (2nd Corinthians 10:  7, KJV)


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/12/2013) Why So Much Murder?

      Justice, murder, and sin are considerations, today, along with more on the “rebirth” and the language of salvation. “Wheelchair Warrior” (Level 2 with 421 points, a member since November 21, 2012) posted the following:



Why is there so much murdering in the Bible if God doesn't want us to sin?

There is so much killing and stuff. It's just wrong! Why would God write this down and make it his book that he wants everyone to read. I remember this one part where this guy snook into a house and killed a fat guy and hid his body in the toilet and then ran. What the hell God!



THE BATTLE AXE: Translation, Please… (01/11/2013)—The language of baptism is as necessary as that of rebirth, for its focus upon cleansing, death, resurrection and new life is vital to full gospel truth. Almighty GOD engages created beings and living creatures as Creator, as Savior, and as Judge. It is not a minor point that the complete revelation of GOD is also through inclusion and scrutiny using sacred processes of divine judgment. The dynamics of deliverance from sin by death; the unveiling of righteousness and mercy; and the eternal elimination of sin for everlasting life must come into view through such events as the first and second death, the first and second resurrection, and the first, second and third judgments.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? (Psalm 118: 5-6, KJV)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013); The Common Danger (01/02/2013); Vows and Covenants? (12/17/2012); A Need to Fear? (12/02/2012); On Seeing Jesus Serve the Poor (12/03/2012)



      Just as there are many things regarding divinity that would be otherwise unknown to mankind, there are many things about human makeup and the nature of reality that are documented for those who will make careful study of the holy writings. The Bible is most correctly seen as a collection of truths intended for those serving GOD, and those voluntarily in covenant as his people. The priesthood receives its knowledge in accordance with peculiar practices, promises, and purposes.

      Those having a knowledge of GOD through such spirit content as faith, hope, love, wisdom and wrath against sin are more prepared to discern and more easily recognize the operations of GOD in spite of sin that characterizes human events. Even so, all must require repeated exposures to truth just as babies must hear “mama” and “dada” many times before they are internalized, sounded, and correctly applied. Angels, men and other created beings and living creatures are subject to sin; yet, sin is no material or physical thing that exists. Awareness and correct knowledge of sin is provided from GOD through divine law; and substance from the person and will of GOD must be imparted to the living that allows identification of sin, and resistance to sin.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, more than surface realization that sin is common and widespread among mankind demands a distance and perspective supplied only by GOD. The Bible allows readers to have GOD’s point of view (thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years) where sin is a problem on a cosmic scale, for sin opposes all divine law, the existence of GOD, and the continuing existence of all created.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/11/2013) Translation, Please…

Some ideas regarding language from the holy writings that speak to rebirth, and more on Solomon is presented, today.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer, “David G” (Level 5 with 7,787 points, a member since August 25, 2007), posted the following:


Should “born again” have been translated “born from above”?
Keep in mind that your bible is a translation from, hopefully, the manuscripts.
Additional Details
When did God create your soul? This age, or the one before this one?


THE BATTLE AXE:  The Golden Age? (01/10/2013)—As with most figures in the Bible, only part of the life, person and history of King Solomon serves as a sacred manifestation or type depicting the things from GOD for mankind.  Solomon is credited as having written more than a thousand adages, maxims and proverbs.  However, the wisdom documented in the Proverbs is to be seen as the wisdom of GOD from the covenant people to their leadership along with the wisdom of GOD from the leadership of the covenant nation for the people, and divine wisdom through the covenant people for all mankind.  Many find the Song of Solomon (also called “Canticles” and the “Song of Songs”) one of the most difficult readings from the word of GOD.  Modern readers do not immediately endorse, or feel a connection with the prophetic language and symbols used to express gratitude, love and passion toward GOD, toward the Messiah that would be sent, and toward the temple (i.e., Church) that would be established.  Solomon, the representation of Christ, is seen in contrast to Absalom, Adonijah, Amnon, Rehoboam, and all the other sons of David, who all fulfilled only carnal and fleshly expectations.  Because none fulfilled the divine aspects of the sacred promises to David, this meant that another should be expected.  When Jesus appeared as an heir to David, celibate, lowly, and meek, yet, a son of GOD, Jesus was “a new creature” totally unlike any son of David that had ever been born.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:  Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.  For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:  But the word of the Lord endureth for ever.  And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.  (1st Peter 1:  22-25, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  “Soul” Food? (12/06/2012); Holiday Displays? (12/07/2012); A Text for Lives Today (11/25/2012); Pornography from the Bible? (11/26/2012); Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Seeking and Being Sought (11/04/2012); The Gospel not Logical? (09/16/2012); Unwelcome Gifts? (09/17/2012); Jealous, Not Crazy (08/10/2012); The Divine Tool of Death (08/11/2012); The One Unseen (02/03/2012)


Many mature Christian believers agree it is not any academic or literal translation of the words that appear from the pages of Scripture that is most important; rather, it is a person’s discernment, recognition, and understanding of the spiritual substance hidden within the Scriptures that is the most important thing.  Thus, one of the most significant approaches used in the ministry of Jesus to affirm peculiar doctrines appears through the Savior asking, How readest thou? (see Luke 10:  25-27, KJV).  The imparted, indwelling Spirit of GOD may give utterance, and the believer’s response may be fashioned, not merely as agreement.  Instead, the hearer is encouraged to share belief, praise, proclamation, and prophecy.

“Born again” and the language of rebirth conveys the profound reconfiguration of human existence while continuing to locate mankind upon the earth (the creation of GOD), and in the world (the creation of mankind).  The importance of flesh as an aspect of the various spiritual processes for salvation more readily comes into view.  Included are gestation, regeneration and sanctification.  There must be development and growth of human being and personness that derive from divine substance (we say, divine DNA); and the operation is one that both employs, and works upon flesh.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, to say “born from above” is not incorrect, for human understanding requires that fundamental spiritual truths must be repeated many times (like “Mama” and “Dada”) before they are finally internalized, and properly applied.  There must be a continual acknowledgment of the separation of mankind from the Creator, a distance that results from the exalted nature of GOD as well as from the operations of sin.  Also, there must be continual acceptance of the revelation of GOD Incarnate through the person of Jesus Christ as the profound outreach of GOD to the created.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC