(01/08/2017) Called, Justified, and Glorified?

 

Today, acknowledging the baptism of our youngest member in our extended family, I share thoughts on the justification of sinners before GOD the Father that comes only through Jesus Christ, the Son.  Christian believers each will be rewarded on the basis of their own works, however, believers are atoned for, sanctified, justified, and glorified before GOD only by the blood, deeds, faith, love, reverence, and spirit content that was in Jesus, rather than their own.  The Savior will not say as many have done, “A man is right when he’s wrong…because….”  The operations of sin within the living will not be approved or dismissed as harmless by divinity; and only the aspects of change and new life are justified such as confession, praise, prayer, prophesying, rebirth, repentance, thanksgiving, and sanctification.  Also, having knowledge of righteousness through the law can not justify a repentant sinner.  To have standing as correct before GOD by the terms of his law, a sinner must display the righteousness that indwells divinity.  While justification speaks to demonstrating agreement with the principles and standards that serve as divine law, in fact, the accord and oneness sought is only by operations of the Holy Spirit within each believer.  The Spirit is not divided or distributed to the members of the body of Christ such that one might say, I “have” or “possess” a piece of divinity.  More correctly, the presence of the Spirit validates a divine claim of origin and ownership for the character, nature, existence, and life of each believer such that GOD may say, I have this man, this woman, or this child.  It is written: 

14 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,  15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,  16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;  17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,  18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;  19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.  20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,  21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.  (Ephesians 3:  14-21, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.  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:  That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  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.  For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  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.  (Romans 8:  1-9, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Damnation And The Cross? (03/06/2016); More On Divine Justification (02/08/2016); Justified Through Christ? (08/26/2015); Correct in Only Your Mind? (05/04/2015); Grace is Not Against Law (07/23/2014); Cruel and Offensive (07/24/2014); When Is A Law The LAW? (03/25/2014); Saul of Tarsus (03/26/2014)

 

Most Christian believers will agree that their lives and value as acceptable to GOD the Father have been established through the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Son of GOD.  The carnal, material, and social elements used by the Savior are often taken to be the most important features used in purchasing and redeeming Creation.  Included are exorcisms, expressions of kindness, forgiving, healing, miracles, prayer, suffering, and thanksgiving.  The total dependence on Christ for the salvation of created beings and living creatures repeatedly becomes covered and obscured because sinners feel their salvation is on the basis of their own choices and the works they themselves successfully perform.  Yes, Christ is thought to have determined the list of necessary works, and is accounted as the judge who decides whether or not the tasks have been “well done.”  However, it is more correct to  understand that actions, conditions, and life essence shared in exchange and interaction within the GODhead—that will always be inconceivable, unseen, and invisible to angels, mankind, or sacred beasts—are the true basis for mankind’s justification before divinity.  Thus, men are not justified before GOD by their efforts to conform to what they imagine to have been the life of Jesus, by their own good works (i.e., acts displaying affection, generosity, kindness), by completing works required by the terms for covenant relationship (i.e., the Ten Commandments and other works of the law), or even by participating in institutional ceremonies, duties, rites, rituals and traditions.  Men are in, from, and of Christ through the imparted, indwelling Spirit (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  To be justified before GOD in judgment, the spirit content of a sinner must continually convey a measure of the active presence, oneness without sameness, and multiple eternal purposes that exist as the divine fullness.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Matthew 7:  21-23, King James Version (KJV):  21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.  22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?  23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you:  depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

(2.)  Romans 7:  5-10, KJV:  5 For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death.  6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.  7 What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law:  for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.  8 But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.  9 For I was alive without the law once:  but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.  10 And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.

(3.)  Galatians 2:  15-16, KJV:  15 We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles,  16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law:  for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

(4.)  Galatians 2:  20-21, KJV:  20 I am crucified with Christ:  nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:  and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.  21 I do not frustrate the grace of God:  for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

(5.)  Romans 6:  1-4, KJV:  1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?  2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?  3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?  4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:  that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

(6.)  Romans 3:  19-26, KJV:  19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law:  that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.  20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight:  for by the law is the knowledge of sin.  21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;  22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe:  for there is no difference:  23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;  24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:  25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;  26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness:  that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (7.)  Romans 8:  28-31, KJV:  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.  30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called:  and whom he called, them he also justified:  and whom he justified, them he also glorified.  31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?  32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?  33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.  34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/06/2017) Destruction of the Adversary?

Topics today include divine judgment, the Adversary, and wrath against sin.  Faith, the assurances, proclamations, promises, and prophecies of GOD have the power to convince sinners that they are being accounted as “blameless”, “forgiven” or “sinless”.  Even so, Christian believers are to acknowledge the awesomeness of the law in all its forms with humility, meekness, obedience, respect, reverence, and the righteousness of Jesus Christ—even where the law appears embodied as a newborn baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, and lying in a manger.  The law does not list all the many errors and infractions that are possible, and so requires the application of balance, maturity, and principle.  Similarly, the many forms of sin are not detailed, and a believer must respond to many subtleties (i.e., barely visible details; shifts in meaning and value).  Be they angels, princes, thrones, or sons of Adam, the requirement that all sin be eliminated extends to those hosts and vessels filled with corruption that can not be cleansed and recovered through the operations of divinity.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

Satan is going to heaven and why are you going to heaven, what made you sinless?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.  And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.  Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy:  and nothing shall by any means hurt you.  Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.  In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes:  even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.  (Luke 10:  17-21, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Events During Final Judgment? (11/28/2016); Birth, Self-will and Sin? (11/13/2016); About Lucifer in Scripture (02/18/2016); The Greatest Weapon? (12/17/2015); Sinless Until Advent? (11/05/2014); Holy Wars (11/06/2014); The Testing of Job? (10/06/2014); Knowing the Spirit is Inside? (10/07/2014)

“Anonymous”, mature Christian believers worship the GOD who has put forth all that exists along with life, the frameworks of time and space as well as humankind.  Our Creator is a divinity who is revealed and appears through judgment, justice, divine law, and truth.  Sin is no created or living thing generated by GOD, yet, it may dominate awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures.  Sin displays direction, effect, and presence, however, may only be spoken of as an “influence”, and lacks the necessary aspects of authority, benefit, and divine purpose to be recognized as an expression of the will of GOD.  Sin opposes the continued existence of sacred law, divine order, the Law Giver, and all Creation.  Because sin is not a process of intellect and reason, we may say sin is “mindless” and promotes chaos, nonexistence, return to the conditions in place before Creation, and self-destruction.  The Adversary (we also say, Lucifer, Satan, the Devil) is an embodiment, a created form, and an incarnation of sin, who is not “all knowing”, immortal, or “all powerful.”  Corrupted by sin, the Adversary comes under divine disfavor and the demand for the total elimination of sin.  In this sense, the judgment against Satan is already decided, recorded, and proclaimed throughout the universe.  Just as Satan and all who follow him in rebellion have duration on the basis of divine prerogative, men upon the earth can find grace with GOD through Jesus Christ whereby they are accounted in judgment as “blameless”, “guilty” yet released from destruction through mercy, or “condemned” and recovered through atonement.  One may correctly say, there are only two kinds of people in the world:  Impenitent and repentant sinners.  Also, while Satan freely roamed in the Garden of Eden and assembled among the Host of Heaven before the throne of the Most High, he will never be privileged to enter the Holy City, the New Jerusalem.  Consider the following from the Bible:

(1.)  Revelation 21:  7-8, King James Version (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.

(2.)  1st John 3:  7-9, KJV:  7 Little children, let no man deceive you:  he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.  8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.  9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him:  and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.

(3.)  Psalms 11:  5-7, KJV:  5 The LORD trieth the righteous:  but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.  6 Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest:  this shall be the portion of their cup.  7 For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.

(4.)  Romans 3:  19-23, KJV:  19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law:  that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.  20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight:  for by the law is the knowledge of sin.  21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;  22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe:  for there is no difference:  23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  Revelation 20:  4-10, KJV:  4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them:  and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.  5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.  6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection:  on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.  7 And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,  8 And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog, and Magog, to gather them together to battle:  the number of whom is as the sand of the sea.  9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city:  and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.  10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/05/2017) The Joy of Christmas

 

Today, focus is upon the joy of the Christmas season.  More than simply the joy shared by children, our families, and our communities, the eternal ecstasy of GOD the Father and the Holy Spirit are to come into view along with the elation among the host of heaven.  The very comfort and joy that will wipe away every tear has been embodied within the infant of Bethlehem.  It is written:  Revelation 21:  1-7, King James Version (KJV):  1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth:  for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.  2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.  3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.  4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain:  for the former things are passed away.  5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write:  for these words are true and faithful.  On 12/23/2016, one of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Why do Christians spend so much time complaining about the "war on Christmas" instead of just enjoying the Christmas season?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:  And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;  And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD:  and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:  But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth:  and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.  And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.  The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.  And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together:  and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.  (Isaiah 11:  1-7, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Spirit and Prophecy (01/04/2017); His Birth Signals Rebirth (01/03/2017); The Divine Christmas Gifts? (12/26/2016); Satisfaction by The Cross? (05/31/2016); Will Truth Destroy Joy? (11/10/2014); No Sorrow in Heaven? (11/11/2014); Can Someone Be Happy? (12/10/2013); Asked to Help? (12/11/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, the joy sinners are to receive by the birth of Jesus, in fact, is the same joy that comes by his death, resurrection, ascension, and continuing service as our High Priest in heaven.  All Christian believers are in an ongoing process of gradual growth to maturity and becoming ripe for harvest by Jesus Christ at his appearing (we say, the Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  Christmas should be understood as a sacred event carried out by divinity to fulfill eternal purposes, and is not simply a carnal, material, and social occasion.  We first “know” Christmas because our parents, other loved ones, and the society around us encourage our acceptance of Christmas as a time of family, giving, harmony, and peace.  Yet, even those who are “born again” do not place the correct value upon Christmas until they have received and begun to properly apply the gifts of imparted, inseparable aspects of spirit content from the makeup of GOD.  Included are balance, faith, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Our ability to be single-hearted, single-minded, and exclusively devoted to Christ will be repeatedly challenged and confronted while we are living upon the earth.  Thus, the following also are councils from the holy writings:

(1.)  Proverbs 9:  6-10, King James Version (KJV):  6 Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.  7 He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.  8 Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee:  rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.  9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser:  teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.  10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom:  and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

(2.)  Ephesians 6:  11-13, KJV:  11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.  13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

(3.)  1st Corinthians 15:  46, KJV:  46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Galatians 4:  3-7, KJV:  3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:  4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.  6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.  7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/04/2017) The Spirit and Prophecy

Today, focus is on the ministry of Jesus Christ to restore covenant law, prophecy, and the Holy Spirit.  The message of Christ was by no means contempt, disobedience, leniency, or slackness in acknowledging and obeying sacred law.  In addition to earthly elements recognizable as customs, discipline, law, and traditions, heavenly gifts must be received for there to be uninterrupted relationship with the Creator.  Thus, the end of mortality (i.e., death) through godliness, grace, righteousness, and spirit substance are proclaimed to be the actual foundation and platform for eternal life.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Bruce” (Level 7 with 105,495 points, a member since August 12, 2007) posted the following:

Was an important part of Jesus' message not be scrupulous, i.e., not to worry about actions that do not offend God?

Examples might include drinking alcohol in moderation, eating meat (including pork), and doing good work on the Sabbath.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  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:  Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  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.  John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me:  for he was before me.  And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.  For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.  No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.  (John 1:  11-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  His Birth Signals Rebirth (01/03/2017); The Firstborn of GOD (01/02/2017); The Divine Christmas Gifts? (12/26/2016); Righteousness Through Jesus Christ? (12/15/2016); Different Form, Same Relationship? (11/20/2016); The Devices for Prophecy (06/10/2016); The Forms of Prophecy? (04/26/2016); Filled With The Cross? (04/17/2016)

“Bruce”, more than bringing something never before seen, Jesus emphasized things that were being neglected among the covenant people of GOD.  Foremost were faith, promise, prophecy and the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  Multiple streams of sacred truth would be unified through the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Many mature Christian believers now find it helpful to understand that the essential message of Jesus illuminated the gifts and oracles for created beings and living creatures that already had been provided as an inheritance for all the offspring of Adam.  Jesus would reveal (i.e., make knowable, known, visible) the person and active presence of GOD the Father within the fullness of divinity (we say, the GODhead) to be a “spirit” who must be known through means that go beyond divine law and includes atonement, sacred events (we say, miracles), forgiveness, Incarnation, final judgment, mercy, promise, prophecy, redemption, , salvation and sanctification.  Just as the finite human tools of intellect, philosophy, politics and science can not eliminate sin, secular knowledge, carnal reason, material, and social means had repeatedly failed and been found insufficient to maintain relationship of Creator and created.  Blessing (we say, free gifts) from divinity must operate within the living as life essence (i.e., breath, spirit, word) from the makeup of Deity, and be the internal origin for their own awareness and self-will.  Sinners must be reborn and supplied with inseparable spirit content such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Malachi was the last prophet to appear before John the Baptist, more than 400 years before the birth of Jesus.  The Sadducees, who insisted upon his crucifixion (and were represented in the High Priest of the Lord’s day), also opposed doctrine and teaching of angels, resurrection from the dead, and spirits.  Jesus did not propose denial and rejection of the law so much as grasping its eternal purpose and living spirit.  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.)  Romans 3:  1-2, KJV:  1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision?  2 Much every way:  chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.

(3.)  Romans 8:  1-4, 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.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  14-18, KJV:  14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.  15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.  16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:  17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.  18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/03/2017) His Birth Signals Rebirth

 

Today, rebirth, repentance, and life from the cross are topics.  Necessary gifts for revealing divinity (i.e., making the immortal, unseen Creator knowable, known and visible to created beings and living creatures) were provided through the virgin birth, the death of Jesus on the cross, and the Savior‘s resurrection.  Sinners who acknowledge divine forgiveness may become “reborn”.  While all Christian believers do not serve as pastors, pulpit preachers, and teachers within the church, all must “fight the good fight of faith” by gradually acquiring and applying sacred knowledge, longsuffering, patience, and perseverance.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Singapore)” using the ID “Zari” (Level 1 with 2 points, a member since December 7, 2016) posted the following:

 

Does God give second chances when youve messed up?

I read stories of God restoring those who sinned such as Peter. I have repented but i feel God will not restore me and im tempted to just wallow and die

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them:  and they were sore afraid.  And the angel said unto them, Fear not:  for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.  (Luke 2:  8-12, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Firstborn of GOD (01/02/2017); Christus Natus Est Nobis (12/29/2016); The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016); Righteousness Through Jesus Christ? (12/15/2016); No Repentance Without Rebirth? (12/14/2016); On Expecting Quick Results (11/07/2016); As Newborn Babes.... (10/13/2016)

 

“Zari”, the birth of Jesus Christ, the Christmas story, introduced special mechanisms from GOD to release mankind and all creation from the bondage of death and sin.  By receiving the imparted Spirit from GOD that will indwell a believer, the living come to know GOD as an aspect of their own content.  Included are inseparable features from the makeup of Deity such as faith, forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  However, these things require multiple levels of sacred knowledge and practice to understand them completely, and have them operate in our day-to-day living in the most correct way.  The virgin birth of our Savior is a single link within a chain of sacred elements that may not be broken and separated.  The innocence and purity we see in the infant and in the virgin must be continued through the many episodes of life challenge, growth, learning, and death.  Like you and I, Jesus gradually had to become balanced, complete, consistent, stable, and useful (we say, mature).  Through operations of the same Holy Spirit that established heaven and earth, sinners become “born again.”  Their inborn spirit must die and be buried, so to speak, and they must be reborn from divine DNA.  The ongoing permanent changes in the living and their full transformation to exist as immortal, incorruptible, perfected life companions of divinity will be finished at the Advent (we also say, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming) of Jesus.  Christian believers therefore all are called “the children of GOD” and “the new creation.”  Even so, those who are reborn also must “grow up again” while facing the same life challenges as everyone else upon the earth.  Yes, there will be disappointments, human error, mistakes, problems, and even, sins; however, believers will “bounce back”, and persevere.  They will “fight the good fight of faith” by continuing to acknowledge GOD through praise, prayer, repentance, and unselfish service.  Consider the following:

(1.)  1st John 1:  5-10, King James Version (KJV):  5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.  6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:  7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.  8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

(2.)  Hebrews 12:  3-8, KJV:  3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.  4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.  5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:  6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.  7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?  8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

(3.)  Revelation 3:  18-21, KJV:  18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.  19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten:  be zealous therefore, and repent.  20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock:  if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.  21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

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

(01/02/2017) The Firstborn of GOD

Today, language in the Bible is considered that speaks of Jesus Christ as begotten and firstborn.  Saying that Jesus was “first created” (i.e., the first created thing) would not be correct, because that suggests his existence had a beginning (i.e., that he is not eternal), and his active presence began through the same process as that for all Creation.  Included would be that for beasts, fowl, insects, and physical objects that were either crafted or spoken into being.  Divinity has no beginning or end, however, Christ is associated with the beginning and end of Creation as the First and the Last, the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending.  The Son of the Highest (also called, the Word) was revealed and made visible as an aspect of the full GODhead by using various created forms and materials that had been fashioned by divinity, yet, could only exist as mortal and as having temporal duration.  Christ appears through unseen sacred process in order to be known using flesh and blood.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers (India)” using the ID “Lesley” (Level 5 with 6,880 points, a member since July 23, 2014) posted the following:

What is the meaning of the Bible word "firstborn" in Colossians 1:15 regarding Jesus in light of Jeremiah 31:9?

Are we to understand "firstborn" as literally meaning the person who was the first to be born? And why doesn't the Bible say Jesus was first created?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals.  And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?  And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon.  And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.  And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not:  behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.  And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.  And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.  And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.  And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof:  for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;  And hast made us unto our God kings and priests:  and we shall reign on the earth.  (Revelation 5:  1-10, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016); Blessing and Inheritance from Abraham? (06/05/2014); On Christians Executing Judgment (06/06/2014); Errors of King Solomon? (06/07/2014); Missing Information? (06/12/2013); The Firstborn, Higher than Kings? (12/18/2012); The Ascension of Christ? (12/19/2012)

“Lesley”, the standing and status as firstborn pertains to specific requirements in sacred law and covenant relationship as well as preeminence over all in existence.  Jesus Christ comes to mankind as that aspect of divinity that fulfills all the demands of divine law on behalf of all Creation.  For the mortal to be in relationship with the immortal, there must be several devices (e.g., longevity, promise, family, inheritance, dynasty) to maintain continuity and stability that can not be interrupted by death.  Jesus appears on the earth using flesh and form that have been created, yet, appears through direct, unseen operations of the Holy Spirit (we say, Incarnation).  In the same way, the Lord appears as the image of GOD, he also is destroyed upon the cross as the embodiment of sin.  The Savior lawfully represents every creature that is the first child born to their own mother, for the first child inherits accountability, benefits, duties, and “life conditions” that include being in relationship with Deity as an offering and sacrifice as well as their being servants, priests and kings.  So to speak, Jesus redeems a portion of all that exists and all who lives by himself being the required payment for all liens and fines against the living.  Things from the earth that belong to and are offered to GOD must be “sent” to him using fire upon an altar.  Not placed on the altar, they must be utterly destroyed, or made to be a living sacrifice through redemption.  Reuben was the first child born to Jacob; however, Ephraim, the son of Joseph, came out of Egypt, and was adopted with his older brother by his grandfather Jacob, who blessed and promoted the younger as the firstborn, indicating election by GOD, not simply carnal birth.  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Numbers 18:  15-17, King James Version (KJV):  15 Every thing that openeth the matrix in all flesh, which they bring unto the LORD, whether it be of men or beasts, shall be thine:  nevertheless the firstborn of man shalt thou surely redeem, and the firstling of unclean beasts shalt thou redeem.  16 And those that are to be redeemed from a month old shalt thou redeem, according to thine estimation, for the money of five shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary, which is twenty gerahs.  17 But the firstling of a cow, or the firstling of a sheep, or the firstling of a goat, thou shalt not redeem; they are holy:  thou shalt sprinkle their blood upon the altar, and shalt burn their fat for an offering made by fire, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.

(2.)  Hosea 11:  1-4, KJV:  1 When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.  2 As they called them, so they went from them:  they sacrificed unto Baalim, and burned incense to graven images.  3 I taught Ephraim also to go, taking them by their arms; but they knew not that I healed them.  4 I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love: and I was to them as they that take off the yoke on their jaws, and I laid meat unto them.

(3.)  Colossians 1:  17-19, KJV:  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;

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Galatians 4:  1-7, KJV:  1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;  2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.  3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:  4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.  6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.  7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/01/2017) Fundraising A Sacred Practice?

 

Today, the first day of 2017, a reply is shared on GOD supplying money to the church, instead of believers raising funds.  Born-again Christian believers are to practice offering and sacrifice as challenges within their new life that must be met for their accomplishment of permanent changes in their attitudes, focus, and power of self-will.  While the source of all flesh is Spirit, the process of flesh must be specific to the character and nature of flesh.  When flesh and form become vessels of divine substance, there must be multiple sacred operations to transform what is carnal, material and social to be in accord with immortal, incorruptible Spirit.  Finite, physical things produced and used by created beings and living creatures such as buildings, money, and property become representative devices to express exclusive devotion, love, and reverence toward GOD once they are anointed (i.e., made fragrant), set apart (we say, cleansed, sanctified), and consecrated to bind believers in lasting relationships with divinity.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Nobody Knows Anything” (Level 4 with 3,204 points, a member since December 29, 2012) posted the following:

 

Why doesnt God fund the churches he supports, instead of his followers raising the money?

It just seems like that would be a really good way to know which church has the right idea.

Why wouldn t God support the churches that preach his true message?

No Atheist/Agnostic answers, please.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.  And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul:  neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.  And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus:  and great grace was upon them all.  Neither was there any among them that lacked:  for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,  And laid them down at the apostles’ feet:  and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.  (Acts 4:  31-35, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  A New Year’s Message, 2015:  Great Expectations? (01/01/2015); To Him That Hath... (07/08/2016); A $1,000 Dollar Seed? (11/02/2015); More On Sacrificial Giving (11/03/2015); Money Is No Object? (10/14/2015); A Price for Religious Liberty? (06/30/2015); Sacrificial Relationships? (10/23/2013); Relationship by Unselfish Giving? (10/24/2013); Prosperity Destroys Fools (09/25/2012); Life and Death (09/26/2012)
 

“Nobody Knows Anything”,  the funding work is to benefit the Flesh, and therefore, must be carried out by the Flesh.  Mature Christian believers trust that sacred knowledge and practices are being shared among the living by the Creator through such devices as divine law, covenants, promises, prophecy, revelation, and the death of Jesus on the cross.  All the necessary operations to establish a sphere of life for human existence, material processes for their communication, exchange and interaction as well as natural law, regularity, and the frameworks of time and space have been provided by divinity.  Even so, the living must display accountability, balance, coherence, continuity, person, presence, stability and validity to participate in relationship with Deity.  Mankind’s integrity, value and worth must be expressed as his own unique nature and substance; however, the character and makeup of mankind also must always display inseparable aspects of the makeup of GOD.  The life essence (we say, breath, spirit, word) from GOD includes faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, hope, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  While it is our separation from GOD that makes it necessary there be communication such as confession, petition, praise, prayer and thanksgiving, it is also separation that endows the simple things among mankind with authority, beauty, power, and enduring purpose.  On the basis of counsel and instruction from GOD, men are to offer, return, and sacrifice to GOD what they most feel has value in their living.  This also may be done using substitutes, surrogates, and symbols.  Thus, most correctly understood, the divine process has never been one of simply supporting believers by providing goods, money, and services to men in the earth.  Rather, there is a stream of spirit content to equip men for ongoing challenges, growth, the work of judgment, and eternal life.  Life for the body of Christ is not about currency, economies, and exchange rates among men any more than it is about men showing off as “perfect” using mere human standards.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC