(09/07/2020) Chosen Because Already Committed

A depiction of the Angel Gabriel announcing to Mary that she is to be the mother of Jesus

Today, reply is on whether the Virgin Mary was free to refuse carrying out the will of GOD, and could quarrel against the Angel Gabriel who announced to her that she was chosen by divinity to become the mother of Jesus. The visitation she received was in the nature of a sovereign proclamation to publish a royal decision, rather than a request for acceptance and accord, or a secret communication intended to preserve confidentiality and trust. The purpose of the visit to Mary was not the foretelling of future events or an occasion for her to worship an angel so much as the making visible of otherwise invisible and unseen divine purposes. There would be no question and answer sessions; and the young woman would have to develop her understanding through such tools as discovery, gradual growth, edification by the Spirit, study of the holy writings, and suffering. Mary was raised as one dedicated, sanctified, and set apart for divine service. Her lifestyle and daily routines would encourage no defiance, no hesitation to serve, and no rebellion. She was chosen to serve because she was both committed and prepared. It is written: Luke 1: 28-35, King James Version (KJV): 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

What if Mary had said "No thanks" to the angel?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Galatians 4: 3-7, KJV)

DOUBLE DAGGER: Angels Appearing As Men (04/09/2020); Divinity and Human Reproduction (11/08/2019); The Virginity of Mary (01/14/2019); Mary and Joseph Followed (11/28/2018); Jacob Wrestled With GOD? (09/26/2018); Doctrine, Faith and Mary? (09/01/2017); The Mother of GOD? (12/09/2016)

“Anonymous”, the Annunciation should be accepted as another important aspect of full gospel truth. Christian believers have found that conjecture and speculation that contradict Bible truth often generates confusion and does not edify or increase their spiritual growth. Mary was chosen to serve as the female vessel for the birth of Jesus because she was sanctified and connected to GOD through her faith. Mary’s responses to angelic visitation flowed from her inner spirit that had been nurtured and prepared to unselfishly serve and exalt Almighty GOD. The divine process and substance of such sacred events center in the message, and not in the appearance or manner of the messenger. The one who receives a divine communication has understanding of the event by exercising discernment. Only through operations by the Holy Spirit are the authority, origin, source, value, and weight of the message established and proclaimed as authentic expression of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, prophetic revelation, and the sovereign will of GOD. The frameworks of divine law, covenant relationship, redemption and salvation are correctly understood as the context wherein the message must fit, more than the frameworks of politics, secular knowledge or time and space. As servants who also carry out and perform aspects of the divine will that include judgment, angels are privileged to use admonition, sharpness, and warnings even when dealing with those beloved and blessed of GOD. Because matters having eternal consequences and effects are involved, the messenger expects and requires displays and responses of accountability, gravity, maturity, and sobriety. The angels are to tolerate no challenges, impropriety, presumption, or skepticism. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible describing the birth of John the Baptist, and a selection from the music ministry of the Pro Musica Girl’s Choir from Hungary acknowledging the Angelus that was offered as daily prayer by Catholic believers:

(1.) Joshua 5: 13-15, King James Version (KJV): 13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? 14 And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my LORD unto his servant? 15 And the captain of the LORD’s host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so.

(2.) Luke 1: 9-20, KJV: 9 According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. 11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. 14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. 15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb. 16 And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. 17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. 18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. 19 And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. 20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

(3.) Luke 1: 59-66, KJV: 59 And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. 60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John. 61 And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. 62 And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. 63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. 64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God. 65 And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. 66 And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

(4.) Luke 1: 67-79, KJV: 67 And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, 68 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, 69 And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;  70 As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: 71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; 73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 74 That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. 76 And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; 77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, 78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, 79 To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV7l0uqOD_8&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLN0d5BuUaMYlRM-Z4tim65s&index=4&t=0s.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:23 PM, September 07, 2020 @ https://billditewig.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/annunciation.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/22/2020) The Challenge of Covid-19

A depiction of the corona virus that causes covid-19 infection as it might appear using an electron microscope

Today, reply is on whether covid-19 is a punishment sent by GOD against mankind. To Christians, death and the fulfillment of mortality are manifestations of the flesh, rather than the Spirit of GOD. While thousands of deaths are now being attributed to the spread of the virus throughout the world, the gift of spiritual discernment provided to Christian believers indicate no clear sacred events, divine manifestations, or operations of the divine fullness are appearing through covid-19. The fulfillment of divine promise, revelation, and salvation are being continued as the most necessary and visible works of GOD. That the Advent (day of the Lord; the harvest; the Rapture; the Second Coming) arrives “as a thief in the night,” states that there will be no further atonement or warnings as provided through the ministry of Jesus Christ. It is written: 2^nd Peter 3: 9-13, King James Version (KJV): 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “Corey” (Level 2 with 830 points) posted the following:

Is God punishing mankind with the coronavirus?

I heard a traditional Catholic priest say in his sermon that God is punishing mankind for his sins. He was comparing the coronavirus pandemic to the Flood as recorded in the Book of Genesis.

Is God punishing mankind with the coronavirus?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. (John 3: 16-21, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Leadership By The Church (03/18/2020); Judge Not The Appearance (01/12/2020); Divine Goodness Includes Accountability (11/21/2019); The Enemy Of Humanity? (04/25/2019); How Did Noah Know? (10/14/2018); GOD Has Come Down (10/09/2018); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013); The Common Danger (01/02/2013)

“Corey”, Jesus Christ is to be received as an High Priest who makes atonement for sin. Divinity does not use corruption, decay, rot, and surprise attacks to communicate with mankind. Even so, there are ongoing acts of divinity that will be completed without further warnings. GOD has used consecrated spokespersons to announce and proclaim forgiveness, opportunities for repentance, and possibilities for reconciliation as well as plagues and punishments that appear as expressions of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Mature Christian believers are encouraged by the agreement that exists among the record of sacred events shared in the holy writings, divine law, the proclamations of prophecy, and the Incarnation of Jesus Christ that all demonstrate existence and life for mankind as a companion to divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) are unchanging aspects of divine intent. The commandments uttered to Adam and repeated to Noah, “Be fruitful, multiply, and replenish the earth”, were given no expiration dates, and have not been annulled, canceled, or yet completed to meet the highest divine standards. Thus, believers understand that the works of GOD include a vast range of “unfinished business.” Included are harvesting those who belong to Jesus Christ from the earth; resurrection of the wicked for their final judgment; the destruction of the Devil; the elimination of mortality and sin; placement of the New Jerusalem on the earth; and the second death. Much of the corruption and disease we see in the earth has appeared through the operations of mechanical process and natural law, and are not a direct expression of divine will. More than the destruction of life on the earth, the highest divine objective is salvation. Consider again the following expressions of love and divine admonition that use language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Wintley Phipps:

(1.) Luke 12: 4-5, King James Version (KJV): 4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

(2.) Hebrews 10: 26-29, KJV: 26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, 27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. 28 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: 29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

(3.) 1^st Peter 1: 3-9, KJV: 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: 7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: 8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

(4.) Hebrews 9: 24-28, KJV: 24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 25 Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; 26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. 27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: 28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

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

Image downloadable 3:03 AM, March 22, 2020 @ https://www.shutterstock.com/cs/image-photo/coronavirus-2019ncov-novel-concept-resposible-asian-1625951248

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/12/2020) Judge Not The Appearance

Today, reply is on counsels from Jesus Christ regarding the practice of judging others. To correctly minster to sinners returning to GOD through Jesus Christ, followers of the Lord must practice forgiveness, and suspend condemnation by mankind. The goals and objectives in sacred judgment are acknowledgment, affirmation, approval, the provision of mercy, and the justification of divinity. Questions on how to recognize cults and Satan-worshipers have low priority among mature Christians. Satan has no authority, influence, or presence in the final judgment by GOD. Moreover, the Devil has no power to conceal, defend, protect, or release any from the divine expressions of wrath against sin. The Adversary will be cast into the Lake of Fire before the Advent of Jesus Christ (i.e., the harvest; the first resurrection; the Second Coming), and before the second resurrection that will be completed prior to the white throne judgment. For the church, sacred judgment will focus on the spirit process and substance imparted from the makeup of divine fullness that should appear within events, objects, persons, and speech expressing the sovereign will of GOD, rather than on occurrences of poor attitudes, bad conduct, faulty logic, violence, and naughtiness. Failing to realize that sin is contrary to the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, the true nature of humanity, their own survival, and our preserving the multiple spheres of life that make up the universe, transgression and iniquity are being practiced as a way of life on the earth. Boasting themselves as those having free-speech, many mistakenly regard the making of false accusations, blasphemy, name-calling, presumption, rebellion against divinity, and slander as a matter of showing oneself to be attractive, clever, knowledgeable, intelligent, or even scientific. Because judging others, and the judgment practiced by sinners and the ungodly are self-promoting and punitive in their focus, the fruit they produce are decayed, rotting, and filled with anger, bitterness, enmity, malice, revenge, and spiritual confusion. Those who deserve praise and rewards from GOD will not be forgotten or overlooked. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 4: 3-5, King James Version (KJV): 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Is it true that evil people can seem nice on the outside?

And satanic cults don't always look like cults?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. (Revelation 20: 11-13, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Presuming To Judge Others? (12/16/2019); Ones Spirit Must Grow? (09/29/2019); Judging Another Person’s Conversion (09/06/2019); The Thought of Foolishness (03/31/2019); When Nobody Is Looking? (09/13/2018); Condemned By The Bible (06/08/2018); On Wearing Sports Jerseys? (11/20/2015)

“Anonymous” as an aspect of error and sin, many of us become entangled in judgment whereby we oppose one another, and wherein we oppose GOD. Only divinity may correctly assign and identify assessments of sacred character, divine operations, and the presence of consecrated fruit (we say, judge; condemn; sentence anyone to damnation). Even so, mature Christian believers are to acknowledge multiple lessons and warnings from divinity that promote balance, integrity, and wisdom when applying sacred law to resolve conflict and settle disputes among themselves, and those outside of the faith with whom they may have disagreements and quarrels. Such practices as deception, hypocrisy, and spiritual confusion can appear by focusing on surface elements of material objects, carnal reason, and social interaction. Believers should avoid competition, use of secular knowledge in place of sacred knowledge, and relying on finite visible indicators, rather than proper discernment of spirit content and eternal purpose. The brethren (i.e., those who also are members within the body of Christ) are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ to one another not only through shared praise, worship, and unselfish service (i.e., religion, church stuff). We should show ourselves his followers through our ongoing lifestyles and daily routines, commitment, humility, our endurance of sufferings, our willingness to forgive and be reconciled to others as well as our willingness to be accountable to divinity. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Wintley Phipps:

(1.) Malachi 3: 13-18, King James Version (KJV): 13 Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? 14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts? 15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. 16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. 17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. 18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

(2.) Matthew 7: 1-5, KJV: 1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.

(3.) Matthew 7: 14-20, KJV: 12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. 13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

(4.) 1^st John 4: 1-8, KJV: 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. 7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5n4ZdyHJOg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 5:41 PM, January 11, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b6/9b/35/b69b35b6605952ca38efab25033e6601.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/23/2019) The Place to Start

Today, reply is on the sacred person of Jesus Christ as the proper primary focus for sinners who seek forgiveness and reconciliation to GOD. The law and the prophets together were to be the platform for continuing relationship for Israel as a nation, and for the continuing relationship with GOD. Where emphasis became placed on obedience to the covenant law, the benefits, demands, and gifts to mankind through spirit process and substance became obscured. Included are adoption, inheritance, promise, rebirth, resurrection from the dead, and new life. It is written: Romans 3: 20-27, King James Version (KJV): 20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. 21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “Shai” (Level 1 with 225 points) posted the following:

Why don't Christians start with learning Torah, as Jesus was Jewish.?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Vessels Filled With Righteousness (11/06/2019); That Not Of Yourselves (08/13/2019); Scripture Has No Ethnicity (05/27/2019); We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); A Beginning And End? (06/01/2017); The Best Starting Point? (09/13/2016); Ye Are Abraham’s Seed (07/10/2015)

“Shai”, rather than begin a life-long study of the Hebrew language to read Torah, sinners now may start a life-long process to continue in ongoing relationship with divinity through Jesus Christ. Even though Jesus remains invisible and unseen, believers are to learn of him, and to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus in their own lifestyles and daily routines. Becoming a mature believer in Jesus is achieved through operations by the Spirit of GOD that reconfigure ones awareness and self-will (willpower). The life essence (breath; sacred endowment; spirit; word) within sinners is transformed through such devices as discovery, fellowship with like-minded believers, gradual growth, practice, study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and suffering. Those who become born again all must “grow-up again” and become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his coming.

Many Christian believers acknowledge the Torah as the body of sacred law received over several generations by Moses, the tribes of Jacob, and the mixed multitude that left Egypt. As a written record of admonitions, divine commandments, outcomes from resolving conflicts and disputes, prohibitions, proclamations, and sanctions within the law, many regard the Torah as the platform for Israel to exist as a kingdom among the nations of the earth. Traditions developed that failed to continue the commitment that was to be maintained respecting both the law and the prophets (i.e., the authority of their nonverbal demonstrations and pronouncements as spokespersons from GOD; their rebukes; their appearance as vessels containing spirit substance imparted from the makeup of divinity; and the authenticity of the revelations and visions they received). Efforts to avoid mysticism, spiritual confusion, superstition, and pursuing the occult increasingly saw factions of Pharisees and Sadduccees arise among the Levitical priests that insisted there be strict focus on the offerings, sacrifices and ceremonial law from GOD, rather than on divine gifts, promises, prophesies, and testimonies. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of the Barnes Family:

(1.) Matthew 11: 28-30, King James Version (KJV): 28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

(2.) Romans 8: 1-5, KJV: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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.

(3.) Romans 8: 14-18, KJV: 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjmgOuPjtJ0.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 8:45 PM, December 22, 2019 @ https://www.survival.org.au/images/Jesus.jpg

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: Where the emphasis on sacred law requires believers to focus on judgment, obedience, repentance and tradition, emphasis on the spirit of prophecy gives priority to such sacred elements as atonement, commitment, discernment, forgiveness, praise, unselfish service, suffering, and thanksgiving. The life-long study and work are not for mastery of finite academic and secular tools (e.g., languages, carnal reason, critical thinking, tongues), rather, believers are to operate as life companions to immortal, incorruptible, invisible divinity. Thus, the Apostle Paul writes: Philippians 3: 13-14, KJV: 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/22/2019) Blame and Punishment Removed?

Today, reply is on the multiple appearances of blame and punishment within the holy writings. For created beings and living creatures to correctly discern and resist the operations of sin, all must receive fresh endowments of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. Sin has not been put forth from divinity, has no sacred content, and is no ordinary physical object you may put in your pocket. Sin opposes the continued existence of all sacred law, the Lawgiver, and the divine order that serves as the universe. Sin promotes a return to the chaos, confusion, and flux that were in place before the founding of heaven and earth (we say, preexistence). Sin may dominate consciousness and self-will (willpower) within the living; and can not be controlled or eliminated using finite human tools such as emotion, imagination, logic, and carnal reason. Responding to sin, to one another, and to GOD require a correct understanding of sin. Divine mechanisms and operations now exist to release mankind from sin, and restore the living as companions to divinity. It is written: Ezekiel 33: 11-20, King James Version (KJV): 11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel? 12 Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth. 13 When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it. 14 Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right; 15 If the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die. 16 None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall surely live. 17 Yet the children of thy people say, The way of the Lord is not equal: but as for them, their way is not equal. 18 When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, he shall even die thereby. 19 But if the wicked turn from his wickedness, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall live thereby. 20 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. O ye house of Israel, I will judge you every one after his ways. One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answer” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

If all references to blame and punishment were removed from the Bible, would it represent a better set of teachings, despite being shorter?

Updated 2 mins ago:

Or are blame and punishment simply too central to Christian teachings, the Bible would lose a lot of its appeal to the simple minded followers who yearn for people to be punished?

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

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Sin Opposes All Existence (12/13/2019); More Required Than Crucifixion? (12/10/2019); A Death Penalty Necessary? (11/27/2019); The Commandments Against Sin (11/26/2019); The Perfection Of Divinity (09/17/2019); The Penalty of Death? (04/26/2019); Divine Priesthood on Earth (01/31/2018)

“Anonymous”, a full and complete revelation of GOD requires the appearance of divinity on the earth using human flesh as Jesus Christ. The teachings of the Bible focus on the appearance of the divine priesthood on the earth entrusted to Adam that was patterned after the sacred operations within heaven where Jesus is High Priest. The issues of correction and remission for sin with forgiveness and reconciliation exist as (1) artifacts of divine order, (2) immutable conditions for the continuance of heaven and earth, (3) the sanctions appearing within the law, (4) unchanging eternal purpose, and (5) the expressed will of divinity (we say, the proclaimed, sovereign will of GOD). Through divine works (e.g., anointing, birth, aging, death, resurrection) that make divinity knowable, known, visible and approachable, created beings and living creatures are granted “sacred knowledge” and inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that men must contain so they bear the image of GOD, and may resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Included are balance, completeness, faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

When divine fullness appeared to Moses, GOD permitted the prophet to see aspects of his glory, and declared to Moses with an audible voice how divinity was to be known and spoken of. In addition to the authority and power that appear in Creation, the presence of GOD who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible spirit is to be acknowledged as a deliverer and savior, and as a “God of judgment.” Judgment involves more than condemning and damning finite human attitudes, behavior, and conduct. Divine judgment includes (when possible) applying mercy to those who are guilty; assigning and establishing meaning, standards, and values; delivering admonitions, cautions, and warnings; determining the absence/presence of divine substance; distributing divine rewards; eliminating the operations, presence, and effects of sin from the universe; gathering and grouping tools and workers; making visible otherwise hidden aspects of divine fullness (e.g., grace, impartiality, restraint, righteousness); providing clear examples that demonstrate correct responses to divinity; and continuing existence along with eternal life. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible; and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Green:

(1.) Exodus 34: 4-8, King James Version (KJV): 4 And he hewed two tables of stone like unto the first; and Moses rose up early in the morning, and went up unto mount Sinai, as the LORD had commanded him, and took in his hand the two tables of stone. 5 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. 6 And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, 7 Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation. 8 And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.

(2.) Ecclesiastes 12: 13-14, KJV: 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.

(3.) 1^st Corinthians 3: 11-17, KJV: 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 14 If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uZcGaixMhg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:45 AM, December 22, 2019 @ https://image3.slideserve.com/ 6713706/he-will-put-the-sheep-on-his-right-and-the-goats-on-his-left-matthew-25-33-n.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/19/2019) Are Social Media Profane?

Today, reply is on whether defilement and worldliness can be avoided when using social media and technology. Divine judgment against the world is not intended to discourage human creativity, industry, and inventiveness. The sin of Adam was not that they wanted knowledge and information, and sought to demonstrate their own capacity for making decisions and taking action. Rather, their error remains that the pair forgot GOD, and dismissed his expressions of commitment to them through divine law and divine love. Even within an Internet public forum dedicated to discussions on religion and spirituality there are writers who disparage, mock, and scorn others holding to long-honored belief systems from around the world. While many seek to make heartfelt statements that will clarify and demonstrate the depth of their own commitment and understanding, often their lack of instruction, practice, and focused study result in the further spread of disbelief, error and misinformation. It is written: John 17: 14-20, King James Version (KJV): 14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. 18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. 19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum who uses the ID “Susie Floozie” (Level 2 with 416 points, a member since June 18, 2019) posted the following:

Good morning, Christians, I have a sincere question for you. Should you avoid "worldly" things like Facebook or use them for good?

I'm in a FB war with my dad who says he "will have no part in the profane" and I asked him if the "profane" is so powerful that it prohibits his participation.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw good. (Ezekiel 16: 49-50, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Watching The Science Channel? (10/17/2018); Prophets and Christian Ambassadors (08/07/2017); In Not From The World? (12/26/2014); The Right Place to Get Knowledge (02/17/2014); Arguing Against the Bible in Church? (02/18/2014); Putting GOD First? (06/02/2013); Need for A New Holy Spirit? (06/03/2013)

“Susie Floozie”, spirit substance within the sons and daughters of GOD on the earth may become defiled; even mature believers may become rendered unfit to serve. Therefore, members of the church as an embodiment of Jesus Christ are to be set apart (we say, sanctified)—even where this requires one becoming accountable to others and enduring sacrifice. Mature Christians will admonish and warn developing believers to use caution regarding all manner of things that are carnal, man-made, material, and social. Our proper focus is on becoming Christ-like, mastering our spiritual gifts, and displaying the inseparable aspects of divinity that we have received from the makeup of GOD. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The finite products and tools of mankind themselves may become idols and the focus for awareness, emotion, and thoughts in such a way that the operations of sin will dominate ones consciousness and self-will (willpower). Such features as intellect, logic, mechanical and natural law, philosophy, science, and technology may interrupt the necessary lifestyle and daily routines vital for spiritual growth (e.g., fellowship, praise, prayer, unselfish service). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. 1^st Corinthians 7: 29-31, King James Version (KJV): 29 But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none; 30 And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not; 31 And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.

2. 2^nd Timothy 3: 1-5, KJV: 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

3. Ephesians 2: 1-9, KJV: 1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cSwMGIhgTs&list=PLidTZOxheL6ur_E9xAPD_7FGu-n0xzuBR). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:15 AM, September 18, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/88/3c/62/883c62ce77c4c7f58ea5854c393f6cf4.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/25/2019) The Enemy Of Humanity?

Today, reply is on whether GOD is an enemy to mankind because divinity also administers sacred law, admonitions, correction, punishment, warnings, and descriptions of the future events, outcomes, and results of human choices and decisions that oppose the will of divine fullness. The eternal purpose of GOD proclaimed through his holy name is existence and life (we say, I AM); and it is by continuing in relationship with the active presence who is GOD the Creator that mankind is to have permanent direction, duration, and value. There are attentions and chastisements from GOD to reveal his character, nature, and substance. Created beings and living creatures apprehend their own identity and integrity of being where they receive fresh endowments of spirit matter from the makeup of divinity. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, and wisdom. It is written: Hebrews 12: 7-9, King James Version (KJV): 7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? 8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. 9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “STEVAN” (Level 1 with 25 points, a member since February 12, 2016) posted the following:

When is God planning to destroy the human race for a second time with fire. Surely he is the enemy of humanity with these constant threats?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. (2^nd Corinthians 5: 7-10, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Ye That Work Iniquity (09/24/2018); Consequences and Divine Love (07/05/2018); His Enemies A Footstool (04/29/2018); Our Fitness To Continue? (12/24/2017); Divine Wrath Against Sin? (10/17/2017); Herein Is True Love (10/21/2016); By Law and Relationships (04/05/2016); An Attack on Creation? (12/08/2012); The Focus of Judgment? (12/09/2012)

“STEVAN”, because divinity is invisible, unseen spirit, GOD uses many carnal, material, social, and spiritual tools that are graphic and memorable to impress the hearts and minds of the living. Included are admonitions, cautions, death, and prophetic demonstrations. GOD is not a malicious destroyer who has set out to harass and heap scorn upon the created beings and living creatures within his universe. The eternal and unchanging purpose demonstrated and revealed by divinity is that there be existence and life. At some point in their becoming “born again” and “growing up again” to display genuine maturity, repenting sinners who become developing Christian believers acknowledge that they themselves also have received guidance and instruction from divinity whereby they clearly realize the excellence of sacred knowledge over secular knowledge, the higher value of sacred events (miracles) and sacred practices (sacraments) as well as the true integrity and righteousness of GOD. A child whose father repeats a warning about leaving their basketball, the bicycle, the football, or the skateboard in the drive way, might complain to their peers and playmates that their own father is threatening to junk all their stuff! Sadly, it may turn out that mom is the one who finally crushes their belongings, and must go through the expense and humiliation of accounting for an error with the auto insurance adjuster. Yes, where we seek to continue in a right relationship with divinity, there are issues of obedience, privilege, respect, and understanding. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Ezekiel 18: 4, King James Version (KJV): 4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.

2. Ezekiel 18: 26-32, KJV: 26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die. 27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. 28 Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 29 Yet saith the house of Israel, The way of the Lord is not equal. O house of Israel, are not my ways equal? are not your ways unequal? 30 Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. 31 Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? 32 For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.

3. Luke 12: 32, KJV: 32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

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

Image downloaded 12:07 PM, April 25, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/236x/31/9f/46/319f46b13539ea90ffe96da5357bf01b.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/13/2018) A Battleaxe on War

Continuing reflections on divinity, peace, and World War, a blog is reprinted that was originally published as THE WHOLE ARMOR OF GOD: (01/31/2017) A Species of Animal?

Today, deaths from war, human nature, and mankind’s divine potential are considered.  For many, it is love and the giving and keeping of life that makes a nation great.  Even so, others now express cynicism and negativity declaring they would rather give their love to animals than to human beings, or to the dead instead of the living, because, then, their love would be acknowledged and returned.  For Christians, GOD is the true origin and source for the greatest human achievements.  Ability to recognize and respond to spirit content from the makeup of our Creator (i.e., discernment) is required to consistently and correctly acknowledge that the divine spirit content is appearing within such features as events, holy writings, oneself, other persons, prophecy, relationships, and sacred teachings.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “John” (Level 1 with 3 points, a member since February 22, 2009) posted the following:

Why are christians afraid that they might be a species of animal?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts.  For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them:  as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast:  for all is vanity.  All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again.  (Ecclesiastes 3:  18-20, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Fearfully and Wonderfully Made (09/07/2016); An Habitation of GOD (07/24/2016); The Cross and Mankind (05/13/2016); The Creation Of Mankind? (09/16/2015); What Faith Makes Possible (04/25/2014); Bible and Spirit (04/26/2014); Animals Do Not Sin? (09/29/2013); GOD is Acknowledging (09/30/2013)

“John” the question of mankind’s true nature is “profound” (i.e., has simple, yet, broad and far-reaching application).  Many in the world today agree that how we value one another (and ourselves) as living creatures does make a difference in what we understand can be the quality of life we now experience, the benefit and value for ongoing relationships with immortal divinity, and our further possibilities for life in spite of our mortality.  Our sciences and secular history may insist that human potential only express an animal or mechanical nature (as if we are mere machines or accidents from a random process).  Even so, mature Christian believers hold that our humanity is more completely and correctly understood as expressing interactions within an animal, human and divine nature.  Christians all pursue the fullest development of their divine nature on the basis of multiple goals, needs, sacred knowledge, and strengths acquired through such features as fellowship, prayer, sacred practices (we say, sacraments), study, shared worship, and unselfish service.  Consider the following points that have led many to seek the greater possibilities for mankind:

(1.)  Casualties reported for major U. S. wars numbered from the Revolutionary War to the Iraq War are a total 1, 343,812 deaths, 1,529,230 wounded, and 38,159 missing.

(2.)  Total casualties for Word War I are 37 million and include 9,720,450 military casualties, 8.5 million killed, 19.7 million wounded soldiers, and 7.7 million missing.

(3.)  Statistics reported for World War II include 690 million served (world-wide), and there were 72 million deaths.

(4.)  2nd Peter 1:  2-11, King James Version (KJV):  2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,  3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:  4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises:  that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.  5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;  6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;  7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.  8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.  10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure:  for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:  11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

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

Statistics are from www.statisticsbrain.com (1.)  August 08, 2016, (2.)  August 01, 2016, and (3.)  April 02, 2015.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC