Today, I share my response to a question on hearing the voice of GOD that also acknowledges Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. Among mature Christian believers, the divine use of prophets and spokespersons are understood as no less sacred and supernatural occurrences than divinity appearing through a burning bush, an earthquake, a spirit messenger (we say, angel), a talking animal, or lightening and thunder. Proof that GOD has spoken is provided through sacred operations called prophetic signs (different from indications, trends, and “signs of the times”). Signs are extraordinary natural events made to appear by divinity that authenticate messages and prophecy as truly from GOD, and as certain of their fulfillment. The greatest and most necessary signs from GOD for mankind have already been provided, and will not be repeated. Included are the virgin birth of Jesus, his death upon the cross, his resurrection, his ascension, and the falling of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Consider again the following Scriptures, and see the presentation below:
1st Kings 13: 24-26, King James Version (KJV): 24 And when he was gone, a lion met him by the way, and slew him: and his carcase was cast in the way, and the ass stood by it, the lion also stood by the carcase. 25 And, behold, men passed by, and saw the carcase cast in the way, and the lion standing by the carcase: and they came and told it in the city where the old prophet dwelt. 26 And when the prophet that brought him back from the way heard thereof, he said, It is the man of God, who was disobedient unto the word of the LORD: therefore the LORD hath delivered him unto the lion, which hath torn him, and slain him, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake unto him.
Isaiah 33: 13-17, KJV: 13 Hear, ye that are far off, what I have done; and, ye that are near, acknowledge my might. 14 The sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites. Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire? who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings? 15 He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil; 16 He shall dwell on high: his place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure. 17 Thine eyes shall see the king in his beauty: they shall behold the land that is very far off.
Matthew 16: 1-4, KJV: 1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. 3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.
Matthew 12: 40, KJV: 40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.
Luke 11: 29-31, KJV: 29 And when the people were gathered thick together, he began to say, This is an evil generation: they seek a sign; and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the prophet. 30 For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation. 31 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “1, 3 DimethlyoOzelah” (Level 1 with 15 points, a member since November 29, 2014) posted the following:
Has anyone here heard god speak to them through a snake or a donkey or a burning bush?
I ask because I’m wondering whether this type of animal/plant ventriloquism is a thing of the past….. OR whether these days we have medication and facilities to treat people with schizophrenia and other related mental conditions.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. (Luke 1: 68-75, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Tools for Revelation? (10/26/2015); Correctly Knowing Israel? (03/01/2015); Poem—Ferguson, MO 2014 (08/21/2014); Good Intentions? (07/26/2014); The Bible is All About GOD? (07/27/2014); No Mystery in Lawful Judgment (07/28/2014); Divine Law for Mankind? (07/29/2014); Poems: MARTIN 85 (01/20/2014)
“1, 3 DimethlyoOzelah”, a short while ago I heard radio broadcast of the 1963 “I have a dream…” speech from Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. At that time, many Christians around the world were able to discern (i.e., use their own spirit substance to identify spirit matter in events, objects, other persons, etc.) and recognize the voice of GOD speaking through a despised and troubled Black man who was marked for death because of discrimination, yet, struggling to proclaim freedom from GOD for modern America. To this hour, those feeling betrayed and filled with bitterness, contempt, hate, prejudice and pride hear only insults, rejection and threats from a man they feel is beneath them. Those having faith and the other inseparable aspects of spirit imparted from GOD (e.g., holiness, longsuffering, wisdom, wrath against sin) hear promises and prophecy bestowed upon Israel continued, repeated, and further projected to America and to the entire world.
The authority, power and eternal purposes of Deity are such that awesome and overwhelming displays from divinity always are possible. However, finite created beings and living creatures (like you and me) often only respond to continuous and gradual change (we say, growth, learning, nurture). Because sacred events (we say, miracles) may generate confusion, doubt, fear, and uncertainty, the operations of GOD through Jesus Christ for salvation proceed—without Bible-thumping—through faith and the daily living routines of family, work, and worship. Those who are emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually prepared actually do hear and receive various forms of manifestation, or visitation from GOD. Included may be dreams, ecstasy, healing, insight, and speaking in tongues.
There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, true practitioners of medical sciences that study the mind are very careful and meticulous when determining a diagnosis (i.e., statements to describe the specific condition that accounts for all major symptoms). By contrast, those who pursue “popular psychology” are rarely professional in their preparation, their examination of the “facts”, or their application of their own experience and knowledge. Similarly, many want a conversation about Christian belief, and the meaningful things of life that include equality, racial harmony, human rights, and justice. Unfortunately, Dr. King, myself, perhaps you, and many, many others will require they do so with discipline, excellence, integrity, and maturity.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today,
points are shared to clarify that Christ was not in flesh before
Creation, yet did exist as the Word. In the same way the first-born son
is to be an agent, the primary heir and representative of his father,
who acts upon and fulfills the father’s will, and who continues,
maintains and bestows family heritage, Christ as divine word is
an active agent of the GODhead who acts upon, makes known, and
determines form for expression of the eternal mind and will. For
created beings and living creatures, divine or holy spirit exists as
no-thing (non-material, non-sense, having no form or substance) that may
be recognized using only finite mind and sensation. GOD is made known
(we say, revealed) by acts of the Holy Spirit, and of the Word who is
his “offspring” and Son. The active presence of Spirit must be
discerned and made a focus of consciousness by concentration upon
sacred possibilities, actual life events, and operations of Deity that
display such elements as commitment, diversity, immortality,
incorruption, longsuffering, mercy, perfection, sacrifice, and
truth. Just as the body has been prepared in a way to respond to
auditory stimulation and sound (we say, hearing), the inner spirit
should resonate with and respond to divinity appearing as consciousness,
spirit, and Word. Consider the following from the holy writings, and
the presentation below:
Hebrews 4: 12-13, King James Version (KJV): 12 For the word of God is
quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even
to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and
marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the
heart. 13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his
sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
Hebrews 11: 3, KJV:
3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word
of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do
appear.
Acts 2: 4-6, KJV:
4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with
other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 And there were
dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under
heaven. 6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together,
and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own
language.
1st Peter 1: 22-25, KJV: 22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye
love one another with a pure heart fervently: 23 Being born again, not
of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which
liveth and abideth for ever. 24 For all flesh is as grass, and
all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and
the flower thereof falleth away: 25 But the word of the Lord endureth
for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto
you.
A
writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Spirit of All” (Level 5 with
9,336 points, a member since February 16, 2014) posted the following:
Christians, I need help understanding John 1:1?
Is the word Jesus or is the word God speaking? Why would Jesus be called the word? Thank you.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were
in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white
and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he
should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron:
and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty
God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. (Revelation 19: 11-16, KJV)
THE
DOUBLE DAGGER: GOD Appearing As Word (01/14/2016); Called, The 2nd
Adam? (01/10/2016); The Preeminence of the Word (08/23/2015); The Words
Are Spirit? (06/03/2015); Jesus Is GOD’s Word (12/28/2013); Alpha and
Omega (12/29/2013); Fear & GOD? (12/30/2013)
“Spirit of All”,
Christianity is a comprehensive belief system connecting multiple levels
of truth. The language that identifies Jesus as Son with GOD as Father
is no less correct than language calling the Savior a lamb of
sacrifice. For many mature Christian believers to speak of divinity as
“word” is in harmony with having consciousness of unseen “spirit” that
appears (we say, is made manifest) through a broad range of
divine elements. In addition to (1) sacred substance that describes the
makeup of Deity (e.g., faith, holiness, love, wisdom, wrath against
sin) there also are (2) inseparable aspects of divine being such as
authority, grace, integrity, light, person, presence,
righteousness, sovereignty, (3) consecrated process (e.g., forgiveness,
Incarnation, rebirth, reconciliation, sanctification), (4) sacred events
(e.g., healing, miracles, repentance, resurrection, salvation, signs),
and (5) eternal purposes (e.g., companionship, harvest, judgment,
immortality, order).
All created beings and living creatures first apprehend their own existence on the basis of things that are carnal
(i.e., related to flesh; having to do with their metabolism and
physiology, the mechanics and repetitive workings of their organs and
tissues), material (we also say, matter; things having form, measurable dimension, and physical presence), sensory (e.g., hearing, seeing, smelling, touching), and social
(having to do with contact, exchange and interaction with objects and
others who are living). Those who acknowledge divinity as the source
for their own “spark of life” (we also say, breath, life essence,
spirit, utterance, word), also accept Deity as having put forth all that
exists. The one we speak of as “GOD” is the only source for both
existence (everything that exists is not alive), and for life within any
thing that may exist.
There is far more
to be said, understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, for
the living to acquire necessary sacred knowledge that provides the
clearest definition, meaning and value for things pertaining to
divinity, they must interact with GOD through the tools that have been
provided such as a human advocate/mediator (Jesus Christ), anointing (fresh endowment of spirit content), fellowship (participation in community with mature believers), practice of sacraments (perform acts to continue sacred operations such as baptism, confession, praise, prayer), and the written word (holy writings that document divine commands, counsel, covenant, promise, and prophecy as well as sacred law, and utterance by the Holy Spirit). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Points
are shared, here, on the correctness of continuing to expect the return
of Jesus Christ to the earth. Mature Christian believers receive
Christ as Messiah, and as a divine High Priest who now is making
atonement for sin within the Temple of heaven. Acknowledging our
present time as also being a “Day of Atonement,” believers now afflict themselves (i.e., humble themselves in fasting, mourning
(not bereavement, sorrow for sin), obedience, prayer, and study of the
holy writings) knowing our High Priest is entered into the Holiest of
Holies applying consecrated blood for remission of sin. More than this,
a word of divine promise has been spoken. In the same way we are not
saved by obeying the Ordinance of Humility, washing the feet of others,
we are not saved by our other demonstrations of faith. Rather,
salvation is imparted on the basis of grace, proclamation, and promise.
Just as a pregnant woman and others around her become increasingly
aware that the birth of a child is coming, yet, do not know exactly what
day or hour she will go into labor, so we know Christ is coming,
without knowing the exact time. Believers are to persevere and prepare
by continuing faith, and performing good works as the expression of new life and rebirth in Christ. Examine again the following Scriptures, and consider the presentation below:
Leviticus 23: 27-29, King James Version (KJV): 27 Also on the tenth day of this seventh month there shall be
a day of atonement: it shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye
shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD. 28 And ye shall do no work in that same day: for it is a day of atonement, to make an atonement for you before the LORD your God. 29 For whatsoever soul it be that shall not be afflicted in that same day, he shall be cut off from among his people.
Numbers 23: 19, KJV: God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Isaiah 55: 10-12, KJV:
10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth
not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud,
that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So
shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return
unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall
prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. 12 For ye shall go out
with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills
shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the
field shall clap their hands.
Isaiah 61: 1-3, KJV: 1 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD
hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me
to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and
the opening of the prison to them that are bound; 2 To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD,
and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; 3 To
appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for
ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit
of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the
planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.
1st Thessalonians 3: 12-13, KJV: 12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do
toward you: 13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in
holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus
Christ with all his saints.
1st Thessalonians 5: 1-5, KJV:
1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I
write unto you. 2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the
Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 3 For when they shall say,
Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail
upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 4 But ye, brethren,
are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. 5
Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are
not of the night, nor of darkness.
The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” that ID “Sherry” (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since July 19, 2007) posted the following:
Is it a mistake to assume Jesus will never return because He didn't return around the year 2000 ?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: I charge thee
therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the
quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word;
be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all
long suffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not
endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to
themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears
from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all
things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full
proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time
of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished
my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up
for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge,
shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also
that love his appearing. (2nd Timothy 4: 1-8, KJV)
THE
DOUBLE DAGGER: In Times of Progress? (12/21/2015); Ongoing and
Unfinished? (11/22/2015); Wanting To Know When? (10/18/2015); Christ
Coming Soon? (10/16/2015); That GOD Is Faithful? (08/31/2015); About The
End Of The World (08/30/2015); The Imminent Return of Christ?
(07/19/2015); Becoming Ripe for Harvest? (07/03/2015); Sacrificed and
Risen? (10/06/2013); Assurances of Salvation? (10/07/2013)
“Sherry”,
for mature Christian believers, proclaiming the promise of Christ to
come again is an undeniable aspect of sharing the full Gospel (we say, good news).
The Savior’s Advent (Second Coming) must occur for the further
fulfillment of redemption and salvation begun in heaven, carried out
upon the earth, and soon to be completed by his presence. Many
sensitive elements are involved that make the doctrine of his coming
“non-negotiable”. Included are manifesting the authority, legitimacy,
and power in GOD’s word; continuing eternal revelation (i.e., divinity
becoming known and visible to created beings and living creatures);
displaying the integrity and righteousness of GOD as well as meeting all
the demands of atonement, judgment, and sanctification. For those who
have received the same faith that was in Jesus upon the earth, there is
no issue or question of “if” or “when” the Father will conclude the
Creation. We are commanded to be vigilant (Watch and pray!), and no
further warning will be given. Our present condition is to be
acknowledged as an expression of divine mercy and salvation that affirms
our expectation (we say, hope). We are now in an ongoing
process where permanent changes gradually are being made to the
character, nature, and substance of those who are “born again.” The
transformation to fit mankind as an eternal companion of divinity will
be completed as we are caught up to meet the Lord at the time of his
appearing. Consider again the following:
(1.)
2nd Peter 1: 2-4, 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.
(2.) Revelation 1: 7-8, KJV: 7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also
which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of
him. Even so, Amen. 8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the
ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come,
the Almighty.
(3.)
John 14: 1-3, KJV: 1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in
God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were
not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And
if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you
unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
There
is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually
apprehended. (For example, (4.) Romans 8: 5-9, KJV: 5 For they that
are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are
after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is
enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither
indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the
Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of
Christ, he is none of his.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be
useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today,
points are shared on the holy writings as a manifestation of divinity.
For many mature Christian believers the Bible has been experienced as
more than simply another book. The Holy Scriptures have been an incarnation
(material form) used by Deity to appear in the earth. Consider again
the following from Scripture, and the points shared below: John 1:
1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the
Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the
beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was
not any thing made that was made. Also, John 6: 63, KJV: 63 It is the
spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I
speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
Romans 16: 25-27, KJV: 25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you
according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to
the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world
began, 26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the
prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made
known to all nations for the obedience of faith: 27 To God only wise, be
glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Genesis Pongho, who
participates with me in THE BIBLE STUDY GROUP (a Public Group on
Facebook presently having 22,604 members), invited discussion by posting
the following:
Hello Ankongnda Valery,do you know that that very scriptures we read is the word of God and those who studied it did not understand when that word became flesh?The
Bible will forever remain scripture to us ok?But the tell you that the
person who spoke to the Romans did not quote any scripture but by the
power of the spirit of his age.We are not the first to make such a
debate ok?Many in the old also debated and when the creator came to
them,they did not understand heavenly movement on earth because they
thought they could have life in studying the scriptures.listen to what
the word that became flesh told them in John 5:39-40, so know you that
if you want to fight this truth with the knowledge you must have
acquired from reading the scriptures and other books,it will only kill
you because you will not see that alcohol is for the flesh and that very
kingdom you talk of does not have anything to do with the flesh you
drink alcohol.The truth is the alcohol you take,only go to satisfy your
flesh and has nothing to do with your soul ok?So there is a spiritual
alcohol for your soul.So which one should we take as Christians,that of
the flesh or that of the soul?
THE
GOLDEN ARROW: Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and
vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the
world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the
Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all
principality and power: (Colossians 2: 8-10, KJV)
THE
DOUBLE DAGGER: A GOD Without Form? (12/27/2015); Justified for
Attacking The Bible? (06/28/2015); The Words Are Spirit? (06/03/2015);
Can The Bible Be Increased? (05/31/2015); Those Who Read? (02/17/2015);
The Love of GOD (03/03/2013); Our Need for a Son (03/04/2013)
Be encouraged!
Your point on the Spirit nature of Scripture is very well taken. There
are many ways of stating the same truth just as we might address the
same fellow as Dr. Johnson, Joseph, or Joey displaying different levels
of formality and relationship. The Bible allows us to discern,
recognize, and understand things done and spoken in Spirit. Where we
insist upon the form or “letter” (i.e., precise repetition of statements
that may appear) using intellect, logic, philosophy and science, we
become narrow in focus, miss the divine intent, and operate having
spiritual confusion. See again John (Yochanon) 5: 39-44 in three different presentations:
King James Version (KJV):
39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life:
and they are they which testify of me. 40 And ye will not come to me,
that ye might have life. 41 I receive not honour from men. 42 But I
know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. 43 I am come in my
Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own
name, him ye will receive. 44 How can ye believe, which receive honour
one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?
New International Version (NIV):
39 You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them
you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about
me, 40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life. 41 “I do not accept
glory from human beings, 42 but I know you. I know that you do not have
the love of God in your hearts. 43 I have come in my Father’s name,
and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you
will accept him. 44 How can you believe since you accept glory from
one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?
Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB):
39 You search the Kitvei Hakodesh because you think in them you have
Chayyei Olam. And those are the ones giving solemn edut about me. 40
And you do not want to come to me that you may have Chayyim. 41 I do
not accept kavod (glory) from Bnei Adam. 42 But I have had da’as of
you, that the ahavas Hashem (the love of G-d) you do not have in
yourselves. 43 I have come b’Shem Avi and you do not accept me. If
another comes in his own name, him you will accept. 44 How are you able
to have emunah, when you receive kavod from one another, and the kavod
from the only Elohim HaEchad you do not seek?
There are many
other points that should be carefully considered, correctly understood,
and spiritually apprehended. (For example, While the Bible may be
received as an abiding appearance of divinity, the Bible itself is not
to be revered, respected as an idol, or worshiped as a god. The task of
focusing upon spirit content may become clearer for Christian believers
when different versions and translations of Scripture appear. The
challenge is not to promote a single, correct presentation having fixed
meaning and value for all, for the believer is not to judge right and
wrong so much as receive what has weight as appropriate and useful during their temporal process of growth and learning.
1st Corinthians 13: 8-12, KJV: 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be
knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we
prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that
which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a
child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I
became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a
glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then
shall I know even as also I am known. 13 And now abideth faith, hope,
charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
The inseparable
Spirit substances that make up the Scriptures (e.g., faith, holiness,
promise, prophecy, truth) exchange and interact among themselves forming
new patterns for discovery and growth. This permits us to say, the
Scriptures are alive, dynamic, and organic continually balancing and
re-balancing as full truth and increasingly clearer sacred vision.)
Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. We are having encounter
with majesty and glory. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
The
duty of believers to serve and share salvation through Jesus Christ
with unbelievers is topic, today. Christians are to operate as those
who also are part of a man-made world system for communication and
survival, yet, not become separated from divinity as an instrument or
product of the world’s influence. For there to be cleansing, healing,
or sacred events (we say, miracles), faith must be present that
acknowledges the authority and power of divinity that produces change.
Believers serve as a point of access and entry into the divine kingdom.
Thus, the followers of Jesus are to encourage spiritual change,
development, and maturity in others by such methods as acknowledgment of
the righteousness the other person may display or express (we say,
praise), providing correction, expressing hope in place of despair,
inspiring prayer and right relationship with Deity, maintaining godly
standards, demonstrating divine love, and continually applying sacred knowledge.
Forbearance, forgiveness, guidance, humility, and thanksgiving are
primary. Believers avoid combativeness, condemnation, hostility and
indifference as well as boasting, complaining, negative criticism, being
“lukewarm,” and behaving as if unfeeling. Showing courtesy,
friendliness, good manners, and respect pertain more to cultural and
social processes than to the sacred work of imparting Spirit content
from GOD. Those who stop their ears, refuse to listen, and push away
the gospel often do so because their need for a divine response is
urgent. Their resistance is intended to call forth greater efforts by
those seeking to share. Even so, ministry to such unbelievers may be
more effective through “long distance” (i.e., from ones private prayer
chamber) as intercession where the needs of the unbeliever may
be confessed, and brought before the Father upon a higher level).
Having been in similar circumstances and situations, born again
disciples of Jesus humbly ask for help on behalf of others whose
attitude and behavior make them difficult, distant, remote, and
unaware. The saved offer prayer from a child of GOD that answers as
obedience while also being intimate and personal. Consider again the
following Scriptures, and the discussion below:
Hosea 6: 6, King James Version (KJV): 6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Mark 16: 14, KJV:
14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and
upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they
believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.
2nd Corinthians 6: 14-18, KJV:
14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what
fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion
hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial?
or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what
agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of
the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them;
and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore
come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch
not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
1st John 2: 15-17, KJV: 15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is
in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the
pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the
world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of
God abideth for ever.
The
writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Luke” (Level 6 with 10,540
points, a member since February 06, 2014) posted the following:
What does the Bible say about how to treat unbelievers?
Update: Please provide some quotes from Bible verses.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are
of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath
given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in
Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their
trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of
reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God
did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. (2nd Corinthians 5: 17-21, KJV)
THE
DOUBLE DAGGER: Respect to Our Religious Beliefs? (04/21/2015); Some
People Are Just Bad? (08/24/2014); Sermons About Good Sex? (08/25/2014);
Focus of Believers? (06/17/2014); Discernment (06/18/2014); If You Are
Sent…? (06/08/2013); Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013); Foolish For
Not Believing? (03/22/2013); Science and the Laws of Nature?
(03/23/2013)
“Luke”, the
followers of Jesus are cautioned to respond to the different forms of
unbelief that may appear among those within the church as well as among
those who are not members of the community of faith. On the one hand,
believers are to show mercy and share the very benefits they themselves
have received from GOD. On the other hand, believers must discern
(recognize) when the operations of sin will not permit the works of
divine ministry. Believers are counseled to be “wise as serpents,
gentle as doves.” Consider the following Bible verses:
(1.) Matthew 5:
43-45, King James Version (KJV): 43 Ye have heard that it hath been
said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say
unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them
that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and
persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is
in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good,
and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
(2.) 2nd 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.) 2nd Timothy
2: 22-26, KJV: 22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness,
faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure
heart. 23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they
do gender strifes. 24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but
be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness
instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give
them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
There are many
other verses that should be carefully considered, correctly understood,
and made a part of ones spiritual arsenal. (For example, (4.) Matthew
7: 6, KJV: 6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye
your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and
turn again and rend you.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.
Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Examples
from Scripture are shared illustrating how the disciples of Jesus
obeyed his command to take the Gospel to all the world. Consider again
the following verses and the discussion below:
Matthew 28: 19-20, King James Version (KJV):
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name
of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them
to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am
with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Psalms 22: 26-28, KJV: 26 The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek him: your heart shall live for ever. 27 All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee. 28 For the kingdom is the LORD’s: and he is the governor among the nations.
Romans 1: 15-17, KJV:
15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that
are at Rome also. 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:
for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth;
to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the
righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written,
The just shall live by faith.
Hebrews 4: 2, KJV: 2
For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the
word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them
that heard it.
A
writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Gabriella” (Level 2 with 375
points, a member since June 03, 2014) posted the following:
What are some examples throughout the book of Acts that specifically shows the apostles fulfilling the Great Commission?
THE
GOLDEN ARROW: Now they which were scattered abroad upon the
persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and
Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were
come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. And
the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and
turned unto the Lord. Then tidings of these things came unto the ears
of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas,
that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen
the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of
heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full
of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the
Lord. (Acts 11: 19-24, KJV)
THE
DOUBLE DAGGER: The Resurrection of Jesus Acknowledged? (04/03/2015);
Cornelius, and Prayer By Sinners? (03/09/2015); How Many Apostles?
(04/30/2014); The Ruler Of the Earth? (05/01/2014); Saul of Tarsus
(03/26/2014); The Nature of Scripture (03/27/2014); About Preaching the
Gospel (04/18/2013); When Jesus Comes Back? (04/19/2013)
“Gabriella”, here are 4 passages from the holy writings that may be helpful:
(1.) Acts 10: 34-48, King James Version (KJV): 34 Then Peter opened his
mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of
persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh
righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say,
ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from
Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed
Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about
doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God
was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both
in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a
tree: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41
Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before God, even
to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42
And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is
he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and
dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name
whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 44 While
Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard
the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were
astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles
also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them
speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any
man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received
the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized
in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
(2.) Acts 8:
5-8, KJV: 5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached
Christ unto them. 6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those
things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he
did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many
that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city.
(3.) Acts 8:
26-40, KJV: 26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying,
Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from
Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. 27 And he arose and went: and,
behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace
queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had
come to Jerusalem for to worship, 28 Was returning, and sitting in his
chariot read Esaias the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip,
Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. 30 And Philip ran thither to
him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said,
Understandest thou what thou readest? 31 And he said, How can I, except
some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up
and sit with him. 32 The place of the scripture which he read was this,
He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his
shearer, so opened he not his mouth: 33 In his humiliation his
judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his
life is taken from the earth. 34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and
said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of
some other man? 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same
scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. 36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is
water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? 37 And Philip said, If thou
believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I
believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 38 And he commanded the
chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both
Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. 39 And when they were come
up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the
eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing. 40 But
Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the
cities, till he came to Caesarea.
There are many
other verses that should be carefully considered, correctly understood,
and made a part of ones spiritual arsenal. (For example, (4.) Acts
16: 23-34, KJV: 23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they
cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them
safely: 24 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the
inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. 25 And at
midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the
prisoners heard them. 26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so
that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the
doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed. 27 And the
keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison
doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself,
supposing that the prisoners had been fled. 28 But Paul cried with a
loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here. 29 Then
he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down
before Paul and Silas, 30 And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what
must I do to be saved? 31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus
Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. 32 And they spake unto
him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. 33 And he
took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes;
and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. 34 And when he had
brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced,
believing in God with all his house.) Even so, I trust this fragment
will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
How Christians evaluate and judge the modern world comes into view with the human predicament,
today. It is a sin to despair of salvation. The casual speaking of
condemnation against others, our shared communities, or the many nations
does not come to Christian believers as a benefit from Jesus and the
cross. Believers are those who have been taken out (we say, set apart
for service to GOD; sanctified) while still upon the earth, and in the
world. Efforts to make changes that benefit oneself and others are not
to be condemned, or hysterically forbidden; yet, both complaining
(murmuring) and arbitrary, ungodly, and random changes that challenge
divine order are described in Scripture as calamity, evil, and
foolishness. Readers are encouraged to consider the attitude and
outlook of those chosen and elect as determined by such Bible verses as
the following along with the presentation below:
Deuteronomy 28: 45-48, King James Version (KJV):
45 Moreover all these curses shall come upon thee, and shall pursue
thee, and overtake thee, till thou be destroyed; because thou
hearkenedst not unto the voice of the LORD
thy God, to keep his commandments and his statutes which he commanded
thee: 46 And they shall be upon thee for a sign and for a wonder, and
upon thy seed for ever. 47 Because thou servedst not the LORD thy God with joyfulness, and with gladness of heart, for the abundance of all things; 48 Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies which the LORD shall send against thee, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in want of all things: and he shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck, until he have destroyed thee.
Isaiah 61: 10-11, KJV: 10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD,
my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the
garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of
righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself
with her jewels. 11 For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as
the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so
the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.
1st Corinthians 10: 13, KJV: 13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is
faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able;
but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be
able to bear it.
Romans 8: 27-29, KJV: 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
John 17: 14-19, 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.
One
of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous”
(required profile information not shared) posted the following:
Where is a society heading that pays millions for people to sing and dance while others starve, now creating robots?
where people suffer, if the priorities of the world are all wrong, I guess I will see you at the tribulation soon?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is
in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the
pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world
passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God
abideth for ever. (1st John 2: 15-17, KJV)
THE
DOUBLE DAGGER: One Faith, One Lord? (09/26/2014); Healing is By
Relationship? (09/27/2014); Mankind Destroyed? (01/24/2014); What
Salvation Is (01/25/2014); GOD Angry With Us? (12/08/2013); So We Could
Have Life? (12/09/2013); Can One Escape? (09/18/2013); Gentiles and the
Law? (09/19/2013); Illusion? (04/25/2013); Not of Legal Age?
(04/26/2013)
“Anonymous”, as
surely as two men may be in the same conversation, and have two
different outlooks on life—have the same job and pay, yet not have the
same sense of accomplishment and satisfaction; both be married, yet, not
feel the same fulfillment—among Christians (and other believers) there
may be deep and continuing differences regarding the quality of life,
the closeness of their relationship with GOD, and the meaning and
message to be seen in current events. Even so, for there to be order,
peace, security and stability, all are to acknowledge a shared set of
proclamations, promises, and prophecies describing the needs of mankind,
the provisions from divinity, and the ongoing divine process for
salvation, renewal, repentance, and rebirth. Our different belief
systems also generate detailed definitions and practices for valuing one
another and the general society. Not so strangely, many are drawn to
systems that emerge through human error or weakness, where foremost in
their concept of liberty is the freedom to express anger, bitterness,
despair, fear, malice, suspicion, and regret. They may see themselves
powerless and trapped in circumstances and conditions that will only be
changed or moved by their own human substance, violence, or will power.
In most instances, believers are sophisticated and intellectual enough
to recognize that sacred knowledge and consciousness of things
within the realm of spirit, require their careful use of other
abilities, approaches, and skills than those merely for expressing
confusion, disappointment, distrust and disgust. Consider again the
following from the holy writings:
(1.) 1st Peter
2: 13-17, King James Version (KJV): 13 Submit yourselves to every
ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as
supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for
the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence
the ignorance of foolish men: 16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. 17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
(2.) 1st Peter
2: 6-10, KJV: 6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture,
Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he
that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 7 Unto you therefore
which believe he is precious: but unto them which be
disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made
the head of the corner, 8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of
offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 9 But ye are
a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar
people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you
out of darkness into his marvellous light; 10 Which in time past were
not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
(3.) Titus 2:
11-15, KJV: 11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath
appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and
worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this
present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious
appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave
himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify
unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 15 These things
speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise
thee.
There are many
other verses that should be carefully examined, correctly understood,
and applied as power against error. (For example, (4.) Revelation 21:
7-8, KJV: 7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be
his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving,
and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and
idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which
burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.) Even so, I
trust these fragments will be useful. Be it unto you according to your
faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
