(06/10/2016) The Devices for Prophecy

The cross and other devices used for prophecy are in view, today.  Included are divine admonition, Ezekiel’s commission, demonstrations, spiritual gifts, law, signs, and divine utterance.  The intent and purpose for prophecy is not the prediction of future events so much as prophecy is for crystallizing divine judgment, expressing the will of GOD, and continuing to reveal the character and nature of Deity.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “abdul” (Level 1 with 39 points, a member since May 12, 2015) posted the following:

What do these mean?

"Eat the food as you would a loaf of barley bread; bake it in the sight of the people, using human excrement for fuel.” The Lord said, “In this way the people of Israel will eat defiled food among the nations where I will drive them.” (Ezekiel 4:12-13, New International Version)

THE GOLDEN ARROW:   The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.  I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. 19 And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.  Revelation 22:  17-19, New International Version (NIV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Meanings and Values (03/31/2016); Forsaken Upon the Cross? (03/17/2016); Two Signs of Covenant (05/09/2016); The Forms of Prophecy? (04/26/2016); The Baptist and The Tishbite? (02/18/2015); The Need for Prophecy Then and Now (11/24/2014); Prophetic Demonstrations (09/06/2013); Why GOD Prayed to GOD (09/07/2013)

“abdul”, for mature Christian believers, prophecy is a sacred process whereby divinity communicates, exchanges, and interacts with created beings and living creatures through operations of spirit substance that can be initiated using physical actions (we say, prophetic demonstrations) as well as divine utterance (e.g., prayer, proclamation, promise), dreams, and visions.  Prophecy reveals the will of GOD, and may share admonition and warning; thus, prophecy “tells the future” only in the same way divine commandments (we say, the law, “the expressed will of GOD”) foretell the future by describing what will happen when there are transgressions and violations.  The work of prophecy is always comfort, edification (nourishing spirit growth), or exhortation (urging action).  Just as sin may dominate the living through their awareness and self-will, divinity may maintain contact through discernment and recognition of sacred law, holy writings, the divine presence, eternal purposes, and specific expectations (we say, hopes).  Prophecy also serves as a divine device to identify and separate believers as a “peculiar people” and authentic divine spokespersons (we say, prophets).  Only those having an endowment of spirit content from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, wrath against sin) can correctly apprehend the message and spirit substance contained within prophecy, events, other persons, etc.  Just as the death of Jesus upon the cross is a clear example of prophetic demonstration, it is also an example of prophecy fulfilled.  Consider again how these ideas are stated using language from the Holy Bible New International Version® NIV Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.®:

(1.)   1st Corinthians 12:  1-6, New International Version (NIV)
Concerning Spiritual Gifts

12 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, somehow or other you were influenced and led astray to mute idols. 3 Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.

(2.)  2nd Peter:  1:  16-21, NIV:  16 For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”[b] 18 We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.

19 We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 20 Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

There is far more that should be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (3.)   Revelation 19:  9-10, NIV:  9 Then the angel said to me, “Write this:  Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.”

10 At this I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers and sisters who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For it is the Spirit of prophecy who bears testimony to Jesus.”)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/09/2016) Miracles and The Cross

Today, Scripture points are shared on credibility, sacred events (we say, miracles), revelation, and the cross.  Actions expressing immutability, preeminence and sovereignty that are “routine” for divinity (for example, raising the dead), may impress created beings and living creatures as supernatural, unusual, and even unlawful.  While the knowledge of GOD embraced by Christian believers centers upon divine acts and works, it is receiving and expressing the imparted Spirit that establishes the sinner in death, rebirth, and new life.  Faith must come by Spirit, and miracles do not automatically establish faith.  Apart from the continuing ministry of Christ, miracles may result in further confusion, contradiction, disbelief, fear, speculation, and uncertainty.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Deborah” (Level 1 with 175 points, a member since June 07, 2016) posted the following:

If someone says 'Miracles are born of ignorance, what is an answer ?

Borne has a whole different meaning. the word is born.
To label as you do is to say there are certain explanations I refuse to acknowledge. That is what it is logically. And many atheists would agree with me. If you independently come to the existence of a supreme being then ALL things owe their explanation to that being and miracles are just those things that He does through direct agency and not just by law. so it can rain by law or it can rain in answer to prayer as with Elijah.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself:  but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.  Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me:  or else believe me for the very works’ sake.  Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.  (John 14:  10-12, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Problem of Faith? (05/22/2016); Two Signs of Covenant (05/09/2016); The Silence of GOD (01/31/2016); ...Ears That Hear Not? (01/18/2016); Sacred Events Were Dismissed? (11/05/2015); Why Did Jesus Heal? (02/03/2015)

“Deborah”, human consciousness must be transformed to engage “spirit”.  The miracles shared through the ministry of Jesus upon the earth (e.g., calming storms, feeding multitudes, healing, walking on water) were essential to make credible the works accomplished by the death of Jesus upon the cross as well as within the heavens (e.g., atonement, judgment, redemption, salvation).  Miracles may seem to violate the laws of nature, however, they all conform to the law of GOD.  Among mature Christian believers, many of the sacred operations completed by the Holy Spirit (e.g., rebirth, repentance, sanctification) appear as unique events that do not display the same cycles, patterns and sequencing ordinarily used to describe “life upon the earth.”  The full revelation of divinity that exists as the GODhead must provide clear indications that the character, nature, and substance of Deity is “spirit”.  While divinity is the origin of all carnal, material, and physical existence, GOD is a spirit, and is to be acknowledged, reverenced and worshiped with spirit and truth.  The “active presence” of divinity becomes knowable, known, and visible to the living by systematic exchanges and interaction that allow discernment and recognition of such features as divine authority, commitment, love, purpose, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Given divinity may control all natural processes, material and physical objects in space, and temporal order (e.g., birth, aging, growth, the end of mortality), born again believers even are built up through sacred knowledge and practice to trust that, through operations of the Holy Spirit, blood, correction, and truth from the cross are flowing to here and now.  Consider again how these ideas are stated using language from the Bible:

(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.)  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.

(3.)  John 1:  10-14, KJV:  10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.  11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:  13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

There is far more that should be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  1st Corinthians 2:  7-12, KJV:  7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:  8 Which none of the princes of this world knew:  for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.  9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.  10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit:  for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.  11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/07/2016) Yet In My Flesh...

Commitment, discernment, faith, and love for unseen divinity are topics, today.  Christian believers continue committed to GOD (1) on the basis of atonement through the cross, (2) on the basis of divine proclamation, promise and prophecy, (3) on the basis of specific godly hopes they must tarry on earth to fulfill as well as (4) upon the basis of the blessings each believer actually experiences and receives.  The Son of GOD is never a stranger, for those who acknowledge his ministry of salvation to mankind immediately are  convicted that he is alive within their own character, nature and substance, and resides through divine Spirit within their own awareness and self-will.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who use the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Why do people love and believe Jesus when they never met him?

 

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

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Christian Three R’s? (06/06/2016); The Life of GOD? (06/01/2016); Revelation and The Cross (03/27/2016); Belief In Another World? (02/17/2016); Spirit, Spirit Beings, Spirit Persons? (10/13/2015); GOD is Jesus? (01/13/2014); GOD is Showing You (01/14/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, the essential elements for Christian belief, fruitful commitment, and spiritual purity are the inseparable substances imparted from the makeup of divinity, so to speak.  Included are faith, holiness, forgiveness, joy,  longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The carnal and finite tools of intellect, knowing, logic, emotion and mental functions will appear in such operations as analysis, using assumptions (i.e., going forward with an idea as if it is true without full evidence in order to construct ones own arguments and positions), comparing, contrasting, deduction, induction, risk-taking, synthesis, and trust.  However, it is only by discernment (use of ones own spirit content to determine the action and presence of spirit substance within events, persons, purposes, statements, etc.) that Deity is revealed (made knowable, known and visible).  Consistent with fundamental truth regarding the divine nature, eternal purposes, and sacred operations of GOD, a believer may extrapolate and infer other truth that is consistent, fitting, and in accord with their own anointing and endowment of sacred knowledge.  Consider again how these ideas are stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 8:  5-9, King James Version (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.

(2.)  Job 19:  25-27, KJV:  25 For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:  26 And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:  27 Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me.

(3.)  Isaiah 57:  15, KJV:  15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.

There is far more that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  John 20:  24-29, KJV:  24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.  25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.  26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them:  then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.  27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side:  and be not faithless, but believing.  28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.  29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed:  blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/06/2016) A Christian Three R's?

Today, Scripture points are shared on the demand there be self-government, respect, and restraint for both academic achievement and Christian maturity.  Those who accomplish the many meaningful goals among the living—that include godliness, honor, and integrity—only are able to do so because they demand it from themselves.  While finite tools such as intellect, logic, philosophy, reason, science and technology are important for development, growth and human survival, they are not sufficient to eliminate sin from the earth.  The need is for sacred wisdom, and operations by divinity that will have enduring effect.  Thus, the process of divinity for redemption and salvation is one of wholeheartedly turning away from the flesh and the world to focus again upon GOD.  Arrogance, haughtiness, pride and selfishness are suppressed along with competitiveness, covetousness, envy, and violence.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” [the minimum age for an account there is 13] using the ID “this” (Level 1 with 214 points, a member since March 30, 2016) posted the following:

 

If I am 12 and in 4th grade, am I out of bounds to call astrophysicists idiots when I don t even have a clue what they re saying?

Einstein, idiot.

Stephen Hawking, idiot.

Textbooks, for idiots.

Oxford physics faculty, all idiots.

Big bang, stupid.

Bible, truth!

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect:  yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:  But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:  Which none of the princes of this world knew:  for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.  But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit:  for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.  For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.  Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.  (1st Corinthians 2:  6-13, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A Learned Council of Elders? (05/10/2016); On Transmitting Sacred Truth (05/06/2016); The Cross and Critical Thinking? (04/13/2016); To Study the Book of Judges (09/09/2015); Is Science the Right Tool?  (12/04/2013); To Grieve the Spirit? (12/05/2013)

 

“this”, as “born again” believers, every Christian is challenged to “grow up again” and display mature spirit content from GOD.  More than simply being within the church for a long period, becoming mature means gaining balance, completeness, consistency, and stability.  Each believer must acquire “sacred knowledge,” continue sacred practices (we say, sacraments, such as baptism, giving, prayer, and worship) as well as have a lifestyle embracing communication, exchange and interaction with more experienced believers (we say, fellowship).  In this, believers are no different than those who achieve the highest academic degree (Doctor of Philosophy, Ph.D.) by careful and continuous study, reflection, and contributing to and improving their field by adding new methods and materials, teaching, research, and writing.  For those seeking to achieve through the Liberal Arts, Natural and Social sciences, it is largely by the discipline maintained that dialogue and fruitful discourse may go forth in place of combat, conflict, and extremes of emotion.  For those granted place within the body of Christ, there is a similar demand; and the three R’s become Regime (i.e., divine government appearing through sacred law, meekness, principle, and eternal purpose), Respect (visible as attentiveness, comfort, gratitude, and humility), and Restraint.  Consider again how these ideas are shared using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Luke 2:  41-47, King James Version (KJV):  41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.  42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.  43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.  44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.  45 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.  46 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.  47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

(2.)  Luke 2:  48-52, KJV:  48 And when they saw him, they were amazed:  and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.  49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?  50 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.  51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them:  but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.  52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

(3.)  Romans 13:  1-3, KJV:  1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God:  the powers that be are ordained of God.  2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God:  and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.  3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:

There is far more that should be said, carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Colossians 2:  6-12, KJV:  6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:  7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.  8 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.  9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:  11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:  12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/05/2016) Poem — What’s In A Name?

Today, I share a poem to acknowledge the poet, Black American Muslim minister, Olympic gold-medalist, world-renowned athlete, and three-time boxing heavyweight champion of the world, Muhammad Ali.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.  Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation:  and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great.  Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.  (Psalms 18:  34-36, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Dimensions of Death? (04/24/2016); A Note On Spirit Warfare (01/06/2016); GOD Grants License? (06/21/2013); Origin of Baptism? (06/22/2013); Must We Really Die? (05/13/2013); Can GOD Die? (05/14/2013); The Church as a Bride? (05/15/2013)

 

 

 

WHAT’S IN A NAME
[A Poem Recalling a Man Who Conquered Nations, Muhammad Ali]

Shakespeare was first to speak the name to me,
“Yon Cassius has a lean and hungry look”
The words from Caesar’s mouth
In that same book where he says,
Gather ye fat men about me,
such as sleep o’er nights
Little knowing his own ambition
To protect all Rome as imperator
god, would end by Cassius
And the unkindest cut from Brutus his best friend

So when I first saw young Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr.
Sleek, lank, handsome and tall, ready to make history
A teenager, like myself, I wondered
Just where or when this champion would fall
His AAU and Golden Gloves careers began to jab
And the goal of Olympic heights
So strange for a youngster hailing from the South
Began to knock our sox off
Making the Sport of “fisticuffs”
A household name

Laurel-crowned in Rome, he leaves the rank of amateur behind
Becoming the professional he longed to be
In mind, child’s play, the competition of the Globe
Bear-baiting, entertainment for its day
Comes then young warrior coarse and loud
Cutting and strutting, drawing a crowd
“I want Sonny Liston!  I want Sonny Liston!”
A name from the “Gangster Chronicles”
and would say, titled “Champ” only because of bulk
Ready to put his name on the dotted line

A first-round KO, seconds off the clock
An unseen punch so swift, so strong, so dark
Confused and dazed, the crowd was stunned
the spark of recognition burst aflame, sweet science
And standing on the ropes, the prince proclaimed
“I’m King of the World!”, disputed king of the ring
A saga for the ages that would draw
All eyes, all envy, a bum for every month
The known, the unknown, the best, the just s0-so
And one who earned the name, “I broke his jaw.”

And then there was the struggle with the war
Announcing that the Muslim knight had come
Muhammad Ali, no more the wrestler Gorgeous George
The savvy mentors Angelo Dundee, Bundini Brown
Who had urged him float like a butterfly
Sting like a bee, and rumble, young man, rumble
Now Malcolm X and Honorable Elijah Muhammad
Would mold the gladiator-athlete, the poet bold
To minister Islam, justice, protest and peace
To carry the name of X in pride, in freedom

We haven’t heard the last yet of “the Lip” from Louisville
Acknowledging he did give the world a thrill
A record of 56 and five, the Greatest, he would say
A Southern boy, Olympian again in Atlanta
Leading the way having fought and won
The Fight of the Century, the Rumble in the Jungle

The kid grew up, and made a name for himself
Upon the world stage, so fast, he cut off the light
And was in bed before the room got dark
Where sticks and stones may break ones bones
Yet, names will never hurt

©Michael Andrew Williams, 2014.  All rights reserved worldwide.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/02/2016) The Remission of Sin?

The richness of divine revelation, sacred process, and the cross are in view, today.  Scriptures are shared to show that remission of sin requires more than ceremonies using animal blood to expunge ones condemnation, guilt, shame, and standing as unrighteous acquired through sin.  It must become possible for created beings and living creatures to correctly discern and recognize the surpassing authority, power and sovereignty of GOD in every aspect of the unfolding.  The Son of the Highest must become the embodiment of sin, and be destroyed upon the cross.  Through grace, mercy in judgment, and transformation that amounts to rebirth, Jesus must become one with and reside within every disciple and follower who will embrace him as Savior.  As depicted by the Lord’s Supper that uses the emblems of bread and wine, there must be a “breaking” and reconfiguration within a unified body of unseen consecrated bonds (we say, the GODhead), and the believer’s ingestion of spirit substance that may rightly be spoken of as eternal life.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information provided) posted the following:

Christians, what does the remission of sins mean? based on bible.?

Update: Thanks for all the wonderful answers given here, well informed, and students of the Scripture and very thorough--reading all these answers, has given me nuggets, from all of the scriptural responses here. Thanks to everyone who took the time to respond.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;  From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.  For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.  Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us:  for after that he had said before,  This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;  And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.  Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.  Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,  By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;  And having an high priest over the house of God;  Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.  (Hebrews 10:  12-22, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Meanings and Values? (03/31/2016); Atonement and The Cross? (02/29/2016); Life Is In Blood (12/08/2015); More Than Death Needed (12/07/2015); The Lamb of GOD (08/19/2015); The Return to Dust? (06/14/2015); That All Were Prophets! (08/09/2014); The Need to Purify Heaven (01/17/2013)

“Anonymous”, through the death of Jesus Christ upon the cross, many mature Christian believers understand the remission of sin is a formative operation of divinity in judgment carried out by the Holy Spirit.  The active presence and eternal purposes of GOD are revealed in such expressions as atonement, deliverance, divine love, forbearance, forgiveness, grace, mercy, reconciliation, sacrifice, godly sorrow, and suffering.  Those whom Jesus will harvest from the earth as “ripe” at his appearing (we say, the Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming) will have been “born again” and “matured again.”  Divine love is not “unconditional” in a way that eliminates judgment.  The errors, offenses, and sins of the beloved will continue to appear within the Books of Life and other sacred records such as the Bible; however, the meaning and value of such accounts will be transformed.  Thus, the errors of Moses, David, and Solomon are no more to be erased or removed than the nail prints in the Savior’s hands.  So to speak, because of, and not “in spite of ” their sins, believers will be granted status as “blameless”, “redeemed”, “resurrected”, and “sanctified”.  Consider again how these ideas are shared using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Mark 1:  3-5, King James Version (KJV):  3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.  4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.  5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

(2.)  Hebrews 9:  19-22, KJV:  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.

(3.)  1st Thessalonians 5:  19-24, KJV:  19 Quench not the Spirit.  20 Despise not prophesyings.  21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.  22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.  23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

There is far more that should be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Matthew 26:  26-29, KJV:  26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.  27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;  28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.  29 But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/01/2016) The Life Of GOD?

Today, Scripture points are shared on the death of Jesus Christ to reveal the life of GOD.  Because we live within cultures and nations where there is increasing demand for equal access, shared opportunity, and the same privilege granted to all, the Scriptures long have been “open” to everyone in general, yet, only those having spirit content from GOD consistently respond to the sacred guidance and instruction recorded there.  To properly study the holy writings intended for those committed and consecrated as priests and kings is to submit ones own spirit content to operations by divinity that make permanent change to spirit substance within the living.  Given the Bible is a book of prophecy, the Scriptures should serve as comfort, edification, and exhortation, and do not function for its readers like fiction to entertain, secular history, journalism, or other narrative accounts.  With this in view, the Scriptures are more a mirror for self-discovery than a full, official record to document the lives of Jesus, Moses, and the many apostles, Patriarchs, and prophets.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Malekith” (Level 1 with 3 points, a member since March 12, 2014) posted the following:

 

Isn't STRANGE that a BOOK wrote to tell the STORY of JESUSCHRIST leaves out the 80 PERCENT of his WHOLE LIFE?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:  But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.  (John 20:  30-31, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Access Through The Cross? (05/11/2016); On Transmitting Sacred Truth (05/06/2016); Sin Also Made Incarnate? (04/25/2016); The Forms of Prophecy? (04/26/2016); Without Preaching The Cross? (02/21/2016); From Cover to Cover? (01/04/2016)

 

“Malekith”, the holy writings are not intended as merely an account of his earthly ministry that included miracles and prophetic demonstrations, secular history, or a biography of the man, Jesus of Nazareth.  Eternal purposes of GOD, and the varied relationships among the persons of divinity are revealed (the Father, Son and Holy Spirit) as well as communication, exchange and interaction of the Creator and the created through covenants, divine law, promises, and prophecy.  Correctly understood, the Scriptures center upon the death of Jesus on the cross, for it is by this single sacred event that the Creation receives the greatest benefit and provision from GOD.  Included are atonement and propitiation (we say, grace, mercy, unearned favor) as a divine response to sin; the incarnation of sin (i.e., appearing in a form that is carnal, material and social), and its destruction; rebirth for mankind that imparts a fresh endowment of spirit content from the makeup of Deity (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) along with spiritual gifts (we say, blessings) to enable the continued ministry of Jesus as Risen Lord.  With this in view, the Scriptures are not speaking about Jesus Christ so much as speaking intimately to readers regarding the content of their own commitment, faith, heart, mind, and spirit.  Consider again how these ideas are stated using language from the Bible:

(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.)  Colossians 1:  16-20, KJV:  16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

(3.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  17-21, KJV:  17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.  18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;  19 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.  20 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.  21 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.

There is far more that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  1-5, KJV:  1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.  3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC