(05/20/2020) 22 Years Spent Preparing

Christ and the Rich Young Ruler by Heinrich Hoffman (1824-1911)

Today, reply is to a developing believer who was asked to lead the women’s ministry program within a congregation where she faces challenges and testing despite that her parent is the pastor. In all things there must be gradual growth and learning. Properly understood, his daughter has spent all her life preparing—not for an opportunity to lead others—for an opportunity to follow by serving the Lord. Rather than academic credentials, professional experience, or special social skills, the fundamental requirements for those serving one another within the body of believers are that one resemble, reflect and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Inseparable aspects of the divine fullness should be displayed including balance, commitment, decisiveness (the ability to make and hold to sound choices without showing stubbornness), faith, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, perseverance, unselfishness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. It is written: Matthew 23: 11-13, King James Version (KJV): 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. 13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Sparkles” (Level 1 with 109 points) posted the following:

If my dad (the pastor) thinks I am ready to lead the women's ministry...why are the other women at our church questioning my ability to lead?

My dad is the new pastor at our Fundamental Baptist Church, and he wants me to lead the women's ministry, even though I have no leadership skills whatsoever. I am only 22, and I am the youngest among the adults of our church. My dad also knows that I am not ready, and he only appointed me this role because I am his daughter, and he doesn't trust anyone else.

Updated 2 hours ago:

However, I will trust my father's judgment, and if he thinks I am ready...then I am ready.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. (James 1: 2-8, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: On Behalf Of Others (03/26/2020); The Meaning Of “Persecution” (02/12/2020); Make Me A Servant (04/08/2019); Nothing Impossible For GOD? (04/07/2019); Those Apt To Teach? (06/20/2018); Women Ordained to Minister? (10/27/2012); Does Everyone Go To Heaven? (10/28/2012)

“Sparkles”, where we seek counsel from Jesus, it is often best first to turn to either the Scriptures or to our private prayer chamber. Many of the challenges and problems we face will be resolved by careful meditation and reflection during prayer and study. The Bible presents many excellent examples of women who also were challenged to serve; choose to portray one of them. Included are Mary the sister of Lazarus, Mary Madalene, Dorcas, and Lydia. Where others have the knowledge and skill you yourself lack, seek their advice, their service, and their support in the Lord. The following scriptures are from the epistle written by the Apostle Paul instructing Timothy to recruit and ordain officers for the early church. Rather than continue relying on evangelists, fugitives from persecution and itinerant preachers, a core of Bishops and deacons were to be ordained as part of a stable structure to carryout the tasks of ministry.

(1.) 1^st Timothy 4: 16, King James Version (KJV): 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

(2.) 1^st Timothy 4: 6-7, KJV: 6 If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. 7 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.

(3.) 1^st Timothy 4: 12, KJV: 12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, from the music ministry of Pastor Donnie McClurkin, “I'll Trust You, Lord” (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZotUuadtqs.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/23/2018) Childbearing Pertains to Judgment?

Today, reply is on childbearing being exclusive to women as showing divine bias, discrimination, prejudice, and social injustice.  Divine glory appears through existence and life, even so, the death sentence against the operations of sin within the first pair has not been dismissed, and has only been delayed.  The putting forth of life from life continues, and has been buttressed and reinforced through observances to rejoin women to their family and community, restore their purity, and provide fresh endowments of spirit content imparted from the makeup of GOD for salvation.  It remains that the ability to conceive children, like rebirth and salvation, can appear as a sacred event, and an act of divine will not merely from human desire.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:


Doesn’t the fact that only women have babies prove God is racist towards women! Shouldn’t childbearing be 50-50?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die.  And Jacob’s anger was kindled against Rachel:  and he said, Am I in God’s stead, who hath withheld from thee the fruit of the womb?  (Genesis 30:  1-2, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); Two Become One Flesh (01/07/2018); The Gender of GOD? (12/29/2015); Strong Families? (11/10/2015); Gender and Salvation? (10/01/2015); The Glory of GOD? (06/23/2015); Saved in Childbearing? (10/31/2012); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012)


“Anonymous”, because of the fall of Adam (i.e., the name GOD used for both the male and the female), childbearing pertains to the mercy that may accompany and relieve condemnation (the death sentence) required by divine judgment.  Through grace, divine prerogative, and the sovereign will of GOD, mankind has been made mortal as the alternative to immediate imposition of what we now call the second death.  The issues are not those of caste, ethnicity, gender, and social economic standing.  There are differences in accountability for the male and female as well as aspects of eternal purpose, the exercise of dominion by mankind, populating and preserving the earth, and establishing permanent changes in the endowment of life essence (breath, spirit, Word) that was imparted to mankind.

Correctly understood, the death sentence was to be carried out against the woman, for she was the one who first demonstrated behavior that transgressed the divine law.  Her character, nature, and roles would have weight in determining multiple sacred operations that include rebirth, repentance, reconciliation, regeneration, and renewal.  The serpent should be recognized as an accessory before the act through deception, exhortation, and providing false information; while the male was an accessory in amplifying the offense by flight and hiding along with refusing to cooperate with the divine investigation, and her apprehension after the act.  Where a plate glass window has been shattered by a brick during a riot, the person who threw the brick has accountability along with the person that handed her the brick, those who urged her to throw it, those who gave counsel to run, and those who aided her flight from justice (her get-away).

In accord with the divine pattern established for other living creatures, the female was created to serve the male as his life companion, and to be his partner in reproducing their kind.  Unlike angels, animals, insects, or sacred beasts that are alive in heaven, by existing as the life companion to the male, the female also became a life companion to divinity.  It was to be the privilege of the pair to share with one another and their offspring inseparable aspects from the makeup of immortal, incorruptible GOD.  Included were faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Because our salvation is not on the basis of our having complete knowledge, or power through self-will that can establish permanent change in our own makeup, many make the error of thinking they may accuse GOD, and render judgment against the Creator.  They are blind to the subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden and sudden shifts of meaning, quality, and value) within all sacred process, and fail to bring to their judgment such divine tools as balance, completeness, humility, impartiality, perfection, and righteousness.  It is not that GOD is indifferent to the carnal, material, secular, and social needs of men and women; or is partial only to one gender.  Divine love coupled with inheritance and the provisions of mercy (that may only be obtained when submitting to judgment) have established childbearing as a “conditional release” from condemnation along with the menstrual cycle of blood to purge the conscience, set a woman apart for use by GOD (sanctification), serve as a personal memorial of the cross and the Savior’s blood shed for atonement and remission of sin, and to stand out as an aspect of their rededication to GOD.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

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

(2.)  Leviticus 12:  1-7,KJV:  1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,  2 Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a woman have conceived seed, and born a man child:  then she shall be unclean seven days; according to the days of the separation for her infirmity shall she be unclean.  3 And in the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.  4 And she shall then continue in the blood of her purifying three and thirty days; she shall touch no hallowed thing, nor come into the sanctuary, until the days of her purifying be fulfilled.  5 But if she bear a maid child, then she shall be unclean two weeks, as in her separation:  and she shall continue in the blood of her purifying threescore and six days.  6 And when the days of her purifying are fulfilled, for a son, or for a daughter, she shall bring a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest:  7 Who shall offer it before the LORD, and make an atonement for her; and she shall be cleansed from the issue of her blood. This is the law for her that hath born a male or a female.

(3.)  Hebrews 9:  13-24, KJV:  13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:  14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?  15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.  16 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.  17 For a testament is of force after men are dead:  otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.  18 Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.  19 For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,  20 Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you.  21 Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry.  22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.  23 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.  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:

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, childbearing is not a punishment, it is an aspect of blessing and inheritance:  (4.)  Psalms 127:  3-5, KJV:  3 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD:  and the fruit of the womb is his reward.  4 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.  5 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them:  they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(08/13/2017) On Men Wearing Veils

Today, points are shared on men and women wearing head coverings in the church.  Prophecy and revelation are not the hiding of truth, rather, they are the open declaration and publishing of sacred truth.  Until the temporary condition would fade away, Moses had to cover the glory that shined from his face after being in the direct presence of GOD, for the sight of him generated alarm, dread, superstition and uncertainty, rather than reassurance, confidence, and joy.  Because the holy writings declare there is free access to divinity for all who acknowledge Jesus Christ as redeemer and Savior (see Colossians 3:  9-11 and Galatians 27-29, King James Version, KJV), many seek to operate as though gender no longer has distinction and meaning before GOD.  They argue that Christ has made it so the blood of menstruation no longer makes women unclean (i.e., unfit fit to serve in priesthood, or participate in worship with others of the congregation).  Even so, it remains males ought not be ordained to fulfill the role of females, who are to carry and give birth to babies, and are saved through childbearing, just as women may not operate as “fathers” without also promoting multiple levels of emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual confusion.  The oneness without sameness spoken of pertains to how relationship and standing are granted to the living as the new creation in Jesus Christ.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:


Why can't men wear a veil to Catholic mass like the women?

I have a admiration for the veils some girls will wear for mass.. what would happen if a man showed up wearing one ?


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.  For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.  Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech:  And not as Moses, which put a veil over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished:  But their minds were blinded:  for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.  But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.  Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.  Now the Lord is that Spirit:  and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.  But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.  (2nd Corinthians 3:  10-18, King James Version, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Clothed In Divine Light? (08/02/2017); Represented by The Cross? (03/08/2016); Gender and Salvation? (10/01/2015); Holy Garments? (09/24/2015); What the Preacher Said…? (03/24/2015); Should Men Take Their Hats Off (05/15/2014); The Issue Is Not Accuracy (05/16/2014); Worship Wear? (01/23/2014); Mankind Destroyed? (01/24/2014)


“Anonymous”, increasingly, mature Christian believers rely upon the holy writings for guidance on sacred practice, rather than ceremonies, customs, policies of some finite, human institution, and traditions of men.  The wearing of headgear (e.g., hats, helmets, hoods), generally pertains to blocking and receiving anointing that comes as a copious flow and outpouring from above.  Revelation and prophecy require that men not cover their heads during prayer and while serving as divine spokespersons.  By contrast, in order to be recognizable to the holy angels as having “power” on their heads, women are to cover themselves, and acknowledge the coverings provided by men and by GOD.

Many encounter spiritual confusion, here, because the meaning, quality, and value of these things are not merely carnal, material, secular, and social.  For both males and females, the head covering may be seen as a badge or emblem indicting authority, ownership, and sovereignty.  Thus, we say, a woman’s covering may not be simply her hair; and she should be adorned with a crown (diadem, miter, tiara, turban) that represents the beauty, glory, and love of her Creator, not her own. 

The nature of revelation and prophecy are to be understood as the proclamation and presentation of things formerly hidden and secret that now are to come into view through divine endowments, covenant relationship, discovery, and sacred knowledge provided by operations of the imparted, indwelling Spirit of GOD.  GOD is a spirit, and to apprehend this, the living must begin with a focus on the Incarnation (we also say, embodiment) of the GODhead and their aspects of divine makeup, person, and active presence.  Consider again the following from the Bible:

(1.)  Hebrews 2:  6-11, King James Version (KJV):  6 But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man that thou visitest him?  7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands:  8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.  9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.  10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.  11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one:  for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,

(2.)  1st Timothy 6:  12-16, KJV:  12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.  13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;  14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:  15 Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;  16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see:  to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.

(3.)  Psalms 103:  1-9, KJV:  1 Bless the LORD, O my soul:  and all that is within me, bless his holy name.  2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:  3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;  4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;  5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.  6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.  7 He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.  8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.  9 He will not always chide:  neither will he keep his anger for ever.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 2:  9-11, KJV:  9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.  10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer:  behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days:  be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.  11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/03/2014) Sin and the Great Flood

The meaning of sin, sinners and the Great Flood are topics, today.  Also, there is more describing divine and demonic process.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers Canada” using the ID “Dead Reagan” (Level 3 with 1,768 points, a member since January 26, 2009) posted the following:


How many babies and pregnant women did god murder in his Great Flood?


THE BATTLE AXE:  Divine not Demonic Process? (11/02/2014)—(5.)  In accordance with the revelation of GOD appearing through the person of Jesus Christ, the sacred device of imparting living substance (we say, divinity, a holy spirit) from the makeup of GOD to abide and indwell mankind is applied that somewhat replaces use of angelic visitations.  Mankind’s need for a greater level of continuous, immediate and personal awareness of the divine will is clearly displayed by the account of the Prophet Daniel (see Daniel 12:  4-10, KJV).  Despite several visitations and visions, Daniel could not understand and convey to others the most complete and effective applications of what had been revealed to him.  The process of GOD continues to be simple (i.e., plain, straightforward, uncomplicated), yet, profound (i.e., consisting in enduring truth; making multiple declarations; far-reaching in consequences); and is directed to establishing existence, life, purity, and truth.  By contrast demonic process always appears through such devices as appeals to appetite, emotion, (e.g., anger, fear, pride) and intellect; deceit; error; exploitation; focus upon temporal conditions and circumstances; immaturity and imperfection; lying and corruption of truth.  Consider again Matthew 16:  13-28, Mark 8:  27-38, 2nd Corinthians 4:  3-5, James 4:  5-10, Titus 2:  11-14, Ephesians 2:  1-10 and 1st Peter 5:  7-9, KJV.


THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And they went in unto Noah into the ark, two and two of all flesh, wherein is the breath of life.  And they that went in, went in male and female of all flesh, as God had commanded him:  and the LORD shut him in.  And the flood was forty days upon the earth; and the waters increased, and bare up the ark, and it was lift up above the earth.  And the waters prevailed, and were increased greatly upon the earth; and the ark went upon the face of the waters.  And the waters prevailed exceedingly upon the earth; and all the high hills, that were under the whole heaven, were covered.  Fifteen cubits upward did the waters prevail; and the mountains were covered.  And all flesh died that moved upon the earth, both of fowl, and of cattle, and of beast, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth, and every man:  All in whose nostrils was the breath of life, of all that was in the dry land, died.  And every living substance was destroyed which was upon the face of the ground, both man, and cattle, and the creeping things, and the fowl of the heaven; and they were destroyed from the earth:  and Noah only remained alive, and they that were with him in the ark.  And the waters prevailed upon the earth an hundred and fifty days.  (Genesis 7:  15-24, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Destroyed in Noah’s Flood? (04/28/2013); Both Born Holy? (04/29/2013); Why So Much Murder? (01/12/2013); Confusion 2013 (01/13/2013); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013); The Common Danger (01/02/2013);  That Mortal Children Die? (12/15/2013); Going It Alone? (12/16/2013); A Slaughter of Innocents (12/15/2012); Signs of Messianic Belief? (12/16/2012)


“Dead Reagan”, here are a few points Christian believers receive from divinity that may help you correctly comprehend the spiritual concepts of “sin” and “sinners”:

(1.)  Sin is no living entity, or material substance created by GOD; and the place of sin within the spheres of existence (e.g., earth, heaven, the universe) is that of corruption, decay, and rot.  Sinners all lose their integrity as images or vessels of GOD.  Thus, there can be no compassion, or sacred connection to GOD for those in destruction, who are the creations of sin, and no longer “angels”, “babies”, “women” or expressions of Almighty GOD.  While sin is no “thing”, lacks person, dimension, and measurable form, sin does have direction, effect, and presence.  Sin may dominate awareness and self-will within temporal beings and living creatures.  Sin alters the completeness, durability, perfection, and soundness of the living; yet, has no enduring influence or power against divinity, and the divine will.

(2.)  The Great Flood you speak of is a sacred event using elements within a material world whereby the character, intent, nature, righteous, and wrath of GOD against sin have been revealed.  The Flood is more to be seen as a cleansing (from “top to bottom” so to speak), and correction of the Creation by its Sovereign Maker than a lawless act of anger, blood lust, or hatred intended to destroy all mankind. 

(3.)  The authority of GOD as the owner, possessor, and ruler of all the earth is a non-negotiable condition for its continued existence.  The elimination of sin requires multiple, permanent changes to all that exists, and occurs without sudden upheaval and widespread destruction only through such divine operations as atonement, covenant, death, promise, prophecy, rebirth, sanctification, and resurrection.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  While aspects of the immutable, unchanging love of GOD may be more clearly seen in the sacred processes of Creation and Salvation—where those who were to live could make no comments or input (i.e., had no role as decision-makers)—the righteousness of GOD, who remains invisible and set apart as sanctified, is most directly displayed through Judgment.  Men will appear to speak on their own behalf in Judgment.  Neither Christ or Satan will be present as their accuser; and they will be judged by the record of their living deeds.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/28/2012) Does Everyone Go To Heaven?

     Forgiveness of all sins, the sacred process of salvation, and whether all go to heaven are topics, today. Also, there is more on women ordained to minister. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Chase” (Level 1 with zero points, a member since July 5, 2012) posted the following:


If all sins are forgiven, does everyone go to Heaven?

Jesus died for everyone, for ALL their sins to be forgiven. Does that mean we all go to heaven? Since everyone is cleansed of their sin.


THE BATTLE AXE: Women Ordained to Minister? (10/27/2012)—In the Old Testament, Huldah the prophetess lived in the second quarter of Jerusalem, and did not have ongoing access to either the king’s palace or the Temple located within Zion. New Testament models of consecrated service include the examples of the prophet Simeon, and the prophetess Anna. In devotion to GOD, Anna never left holy ground by leaving the Temple, and lived as a widow in continual fasting, prayer, and proclaiming testimony from GOD. Simeon was not a priest or Levite, yet, he also was sanctified, and continued as a constant presence among those of the Temple community. As with prophets, virgins and widows of the Mosaic covenant, their separation followed a spiritual event that served as their being “called”, and was confirmed by the fulfillment of foretold events that were to occur as signs. Many, today, disregard and ignore the requirement of being spiritually called and then affirmed through signs. Ministry is held to be a professional occupation, or a vocation (hobby), and one is qualified through academic examination, employment history, licensing, and self-selection. The social overlay upon the spiritual process of the church demands a high level of genuine discernment by all who seek to share in congregation. Ambition and desire for status are not generated or produced by the Holy Spirit. Where believers continue to need acknowledgment and praise from family, from peers, from others, or even from GOD, this contends against the assurances of faith. The pair, Aquila and Priscilla, who traveled with the Apostle Paul and sponsored a church within their home, served with no greater title and office than “helpers in Christ Jesus.” Given that the commission of those who serve may be known only to GOD (and through GOD by discernment of the Holy Spirit) believers are often denied by those having the celebrity of institutional identity. Several women are noted in the Scripture who supported the ministry of Jesus by their own ministry of giving. Apart from self-employed women (usually harlots), those having small businesses, and widows, there were relatively few independent women having financial means, and who managed property and large households. The New Testament contrast of Mary and Martha portrays the difference between passive and active service, intimate and impersonal relationship. Admonitions appear against “ever learning and never coming into the knowledge of the truth;” and believers are cautioned that “faith without works is dead.” As a result many women are now actively serving as evangelists, fundraisers, mothers over the church, school teachers, and “godmothers” who conduct new believers through preparation for baptism or confirmation. It remains that, exclusive and single-minded commitment of their lives to Christ appears most completely and correctly achieved today only by those women that serve as nuns. The threefold challenge to overcome the various aspects of the flesh, the material world, and the social milieu make it that every woman must prayerfully examine the divine dispensations of marriage, homemaking, and the promise written in Scripture that a woman shall be saved through childbearing.


THE GOLDEN ARROW: Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. (1st John 3: 4-11, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Gospel not Logical? (09/16/2012); Unwelcome Gifts? (09/17/2012); Chances for Change (09/15/2012); What He Died For (09/14/2012); Father Forgive (09/06/2012); Binder 35: Whom The Lord Loveth (11/01/2011); Forgiveness? (12/07/2010)

      
     Here are some answers shared among mature Christian believers:
      
     Forgiveness is only one aspect of the full work in the sacred process of salvation. A sinner seeking recovery to GOD must cooperate with, and yield to operations by the Holy Spirit (also called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth). In addition to forgiveness there must be atonement, propitiation for sin, repentance, rebirth, regeneration and sanctification. Profound and involuntary change must occur in the life that goes beyond attitude, behavior, conduct and speech. Saying this another way: Once you are “born again” you must “grow up again;” encountering the “growing pains” of spiritual transformation while still in a material, nonspiritual and social world.
      
     New knowledge, information and understanding are important for making clear to others the changes they see occurring in the life of a believer. However, arguing, debate, logic and intellectual reasoning are not the actual substance that is to be shared with others. The believer demonstrates and displays to others a sacred content they otherwise would never be allowed to access or see. Included are faithfulness, godliness, holiness, humility, longsuffering, purpose, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

      Forgiveness does not remove defilement of body, mind, spirit and human will within created beings and living creatures. The corruption of divine substance must be halted and reversed. Forgiveness alone does not correct what and who a person has become through the influence of sin. The benefit of forgiveness appears as a counterweight provided in evaluation and judgment against sinful deeds as well as in the continuance of ones correct standing and position within relationship.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, just as the Scriptures describe both a first and second death, a first and second resurrection, there are a first and second judgment. The first judgment focuses upon ones sacred content, and is followed by destruction in the lake of fire of all those lacking the substance of GOD. The second judgment examines the deeds of all those from the earth who will then be immortal and incorruptible.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/27/2012) Women Ordained to Minister?

      Devotion and the service of women in the church are topics with more on the crux of the matter regarding modern social legislation. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Pastor Ken” (Level 1 with 180 points, a member since April 8, 2012) posted the following:



A woman ordained minister?

What could they do that is legal according to the bible? Would they even need to be ordained in the 1st palce? Only God ordains...

Additional Details

A woman with a paper that shes ordained is wrong isnt it?



THE BATTLE AXE: The Crux of the Matter (10/26/2012)—Given that law must be fundamental, and must serve as the anchor and base whereby exchange, interaction and continuing relationships are maintained, law is published and put into place before decision-making and opportunities for thought and action. Law proclaims and reveals probable consequences and outcomes of choices. Where current presentations of public issues through debate and media events repeatedly fail is in that they speculate or speak about the law, while not declaring the law. Lacking the authority of the law, the statements made are often misdirected, uninformed, and weak. Examples are seen in recent media campaigns to promote legislation in support of gambling initiatives in nearby Maryland that appeal to voters in terms of benefits to education, employment, and economic growth. Television ads have been broadcast featuring retired educators, government officials, and well-known athletes. None have raised the issues of social and spiritual corruption, the association of gambling with increased use of alcohol, or the influx of prostitution. There has been no mention of the impact upon the police burden (e.g., manpower, security, supervision of traffic, etc.). More than this, there seems to be no detailed, realistic and reliable public information on how both a gambling business and its host community become solvent and stable. The persistence of “hidden” and “unexposed” process is a sure sign that there will be unanticipated and unintended outcomes. An illustration of what results when a segment of a nation’s population denies that it must be accountable to law has been seen in the violence by drug cartels of Mexico that execute the entire family of drug enforcement officers. Their goal is not to control or replace the present government so much as to eliminate all law. Among men there are bad, oppressive and unfair laws; however, these do not come from GOD, and are not built upon precepts and principles for enduring productive relationships, and eternal life.



THE GOLDEN ARROW: And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works. (Revelation 2: 18-23, King James Version)



THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Some to Rule? (03/31/2012); Birth Control and Sexism? (03/16/2012); Many Forms of GOD? (03/17/2012); Binder 28: Purity (10/25/2011)



      Here are some ideas that are shared among the mature sons and daughters of GOD through Jesus Christ:

      In accordance with the Scriptures, consecration for sacred service that pertains to atonement for sin was to meet a number of peculiar specifications. Separation, cleansing and anointing were essential as were considerations of birth order, priestly inheritance, maturity, stamina, and various levels of emotional and psychological strength needed for the slaughter of livestock. The physical limitations of women included their regular cycle to remove unfertilized eggs that would otherwise decay, and become poisons within their bodies. Also, the problems attending childbearing and birth limited the participation of women in all social and spiritual service. Generally, regardless of ones gender, an issue of bodily fluids, and certainly of blood, made one unclean, that is, unfit for sacred service and full participation within the community of believers.

      In the dispensation of the Gospel, women are not denied discipleship, and their function and service includes operating as prophetess and saint. Like women of the Old Testament, that include the judge Deborah, women often were the strength that nourished the bonds maintaining groups in faith. Nevertheless, the official titles, and division of labor for women within the assembly and community of believers do not include bishop, deacon, teacher, and apostle. Given the oneness of man and wife before GOD, many understand that both the bishop and his wife occupied the bishopric; and both were anointed in single service. Their specific duties, functions and works were different, even according to gender; however, the efforts of one always complemented and completed the efforts of the other.

      All believers have place in the work of spreading the Gospel, however, all are not to preach from the pulpit, teach in formal settings, or do anything other than display the Spirit of Christ in their daily living and routines of life. In their roles as wives and mothers, women are granted full authority to operate in the dictates of their faith that include humility, obedience, and unselfishness.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, in the dispensation from Christ, neither women nor children are denied opportunities to serve, share and express themselves in spiritual devotion to GOD. Where problems arise, there are usually worldly issues of envy, manipulation, presumption, pride, and social prestige. Divine authority and holy presence are not discerned.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC