Today, focus is on language in the Bible that speaks of the Antichrist and the antichrist spirit. The individual described by several End Time prophesies who is called “Antichrist” is a political figure who will be a counterfeit of the Messiah. As an ungodly pretender (i.e., one from royal lineage who makes an unlawful claim to royal inheritance), the Antichrist will seek to reign over the earth supported by the Beast, the False Prophet, and the Great Whore. The “spirit of antichrist” is a condition in the makeup and substance of created beings and living creatures that results from the operations of sin that oppose the continued existence of sacred law, the Creator as Law Giver, and all divine order. Not all who are sinners, nor all who are wicked will display the antichrist spirit in ways easily discerned, yet, they all will be influenced to receive the mark of the beast, and to obey the Antichrist. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Wendell” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since November 07, 2017) posted the following:
Where is the phrase, many anti Christ mentioned in the bible?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God; That ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all men, both free and bond, both small and great. And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh. (Revelation 19: 11-21, King James Version, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Detecting Counterfeit Human Nature (11/02/2017); Incarnate, GOD May Die (05/11/2017); About The End Of The World (08/30/2015); Those Having the True Secrets? (04/14/2015); The Endtime and Fear? (01/14/2015); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)
“Wendell”, mature members of the body of Christ (the church) and saints within the kingdom of GOD are being instructed to avoid spiritual confusion and deception that arises by the appearance of “many spirits” operating among us as “antichrists” and the single figure in the prophecies of the Scriptures who is spoken of as “that Wicked” and “the Anti-Christ.” The sacred process to recognize and respond to spirit content within oneself, events, other people, prophecies, etc., is called “discernment”. Developing believers are to practice discernment wherein they use their own endowment of spirit imparted from the makeup of divinity as a standard to examine the authenticity and godliness for things offered and shared as being from Jesus Christ and the Father. Included are faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
The Bible presents many admonitions and warnings to believers on approaching and engaging spirits that are residing in the earth. Believers receive these teachings as immutable and unchanging (that is, true in the time they were recorded, and still true to this day). To examine, discern, and correctly acknowledge spirit meanings, quality, and values is not the same as making a divine judgment against another person for sin and ungodliness. Our finite tools of emotion, intellect, philosophy and science do not fit created beings and living creatures to make the assignments of final judgment, for there are many subtleties (barely visible differences; hidden shifts and changes) that also must be taken into account and weighed. Discernment should be applied when replying to questions such as those posed here, when sharing godly counsel, and when offering witness and testimony to spread the Gospel.
Many confuse the figures spoken of in prophecy that include Satan, the false prophet, the beast, the Deceiver, and those who fall way (called apostates). Among both born-again believers and sinners, this confusion has increased widespread defiance, hidden fear, suspicion, and refusal to cooperate with all authority figures (e.g., clergy, parents, public officials). Careful, disciplined, and prayerful study are required to truly apprehend this material intended for priests and kings that is some of the most challenging truth from the Scriptures. Here, casual reading rarely results in discovery, edification, and resources that are useful for ministry to others. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:
(1.) 1st John 2: 18-23, King James Version (KJV): 18 Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. 20 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. 21 I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. 22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. 23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: [but] he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also.
(2.) 1st John 4: 1-6, KJV: 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
(3.) 2nd Thessalonians 2: 3-10, KJV: 3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. 5 Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? 6 And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) 2nd John 6-8: KJV: 6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. 7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today, the makeup and nature of divine knowledge are considered. Many aspects of angelic and human makeup were designed to be independent and separate from divinity, and in that sense, they do not carry out and obey sacred law. Also, there are multiple elements and features that are not intended to communicate, exchange and interact with Deity within ongoing relationships that are intimate, organic, or personal. Those who parrot the language that GOD is “all-knowing” or “omniscient” may be doing so because they deny revelation from GOD, acknowledge no relationship to the Holy, and are convinced that the Most High is more concerned about the world and the flesh than anything else. They seem to want to make certain that GOD knows their sinful thoughts and wickedness so they may blame GOD for it, escape divine justice, and question the righteousness of his judgments against themselves. Mature Christians are more ready to understand that the knowledge of GOD goes beyond the objects and operations that appear within the frameworks of time and space, or the life experiences of angelic and human duration. The heart, mind, and will of GOD also embrace, embody, and focus upon things that are entirely spirit in their character and makeup as well as eternal and perfect. One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is presented) posted the following:
God is omniscient and knows everything he knows before we're born if we're going to heaven or hell so how can anyone claim we have free will?
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: The Creator is Different (10/31/2017); Idolatry -- Exalting Human Devices? (09/21/2017); Knowing the Invisible GOD (09/17/2017); Divine Knowing, Finite Will? (09/28/2016); GOD Knowing the Price? (06/15/2016); The Philosophy of Free Will? (04/08/2014); The Name(?) of GOD (04/09/2014); GOD Knows Tomorrow? (04/12/2013)
“Anonymous”, because created beings and living creatures must come to know their own spheres of life (e.g., the earth, the ocean, the universe) using finite tools such as emotion, intellect, logic, carnal reason, and sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching) they are always more ready to describe divinity as being a life form like themselves. GOD is being made known and revealed as a spirit who is the origin of consciousness, existence, and life. At this time, Christian believers should avoid calling GOD “all-knowing” or “omniscient”, for this implies that the mind of GOD contains and is focused only on secular knowledge, human affairs, the world, and the things of flesh. To engage divinity in relationships that will be continuous, personal, and enduring, the living must be endowed with spirit content from the makeup of GOD as well as sacred knowledge. Included are inseparable aspects of divine fullness such as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, “oneness without sameness,” wisdom, and wrath against sin.
The carnal mind is enmity against GOD (i.e., has not been designed to respond to the spirit content and active presence who is the Most High). In the same way, there now are machines that do the same work you would expect from a human, yet, they are still only machines, the inborn spirit within human beings allows the living to perform many tasks obeying divine law, yet, they still can not consistently and correctly identify, resist, and eliminate sin. They are like the new automobiles that will apply the brakes, lock the doors, and even park the vehicle when supplied with correct data processed by artificial intelligence and on-board computers. As mechanical devices that require detailed programming, these machines can perform a few simple things very well, and they do not discover, learn, or themselves create and reproduce. Therefore, we say they lack human flexibility and person that would allow responses to unplanned for changes.
There is no “free will” that may ignore natural and sacred law; however, there are rebellion and self-will that are separate from the sovereign will of GOD. When you say, ABCDEFG, and I say, XYZ is coming, I am not reading your mind so much as discerning and reacting to a fixed pattern. The “foreknowledge” of Deity concerning human accomplishments can be compared to that of a father who, on the day his child is born, rushes out and buys a football, or baseball. He intends to guide, instruct, and share a peculiar inheritance with his own child. He may have a dream and a hope that his son will someday be a champion athlete. His dad may even coach him daily, all through his “growing up years;” and when his son reaches age for high school or college athletics, his son may choose basketball, or chemistry and other sciences, instead.
Consider again Ephesians 1: 2-11, King James Version (KJV): 2 Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: 11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today, reply is on an unresolved conflict between an adult believer and several young musicians in his congregation. As with other forms of prophetic demonstration, music ministry is a high privilege from GOD whereby divine things are provided that are simple yet profound, far-reaching in their sacred consequences, and rich in their spirit content. Many in the church do not want to obey, or are unfamiliar with the “rules” that should be followed by those who prophesy (e.g., a man ought not prophesy with his head covered; a woman ought not prophecy with her head uncovered; wearing the whole armor of GOD, a man may prophesy wearing the helmet of salvation; for those joined in holy matrimony, a woman is “covered” by her husband, and her spouse by the Lord; saints will prophesy wearing the crown of life). In the same way many miss that a piano, an electric guitar, or a zither is also a “stringed instrument” that may be used along with the harp or violin in praising GOD as urged by the Prophet and King, David, many miss that young people, may be prophets and spokespersons in service to GOD. Even so, it is not incorrect to admonish all who enter the sanctuary of the church to be alert to those things associated with the lifestyles of artists and creative people (such as “bumper stickers” and labels on their drums or other personal property) that present proverbs and “wisdom” of the world that are contrary to the sacred guidance and instruction that come to us from GOD. Rather than condemn anyone, or despair of their ever “growing up” and understanding, they are to be accepted, nourished, respected, and shared with as “developing believers” and those who are still “a divine work in progress” (like ourselves). One of the fighters using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appears) posted the following:
This guy at church offends me and refuses to remove his stickers that offend me?
I am a singer in a church. My son(8) broke the drummers brother guitar at our church and now the guitarist refuses to play but he still comes as his brother is our drummer. I am 40. I find the stickers the drummer has on his drum set(in front of his bass drum) very offensive, he has some stickers from bands he enjoys on them they are not religious bands they are rock bands. He also has 3 stickers that say "think for yourself, don't think like me or anyone else." And one that says "wassup" and another that says "be who you wanna be not what they tell you." I find all of those very offensive and don't like my young son(8) seeing those the drummer refuses to remove them saying it is his drum set and he does what he wants with them. What would you do?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds. Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand; To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people; To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD. (Psalms 149: 1-9, King James Version, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Leadings of the Spirit (11/05/2017); Foolish People and Unwise (10/26/2017); Undergoing A Sacred Transformation (10/24/2017); ...And They Will Know (10/23/2017); Accepting Christ, Accepting Change (10/20/2017); Caution! Work In Progress (10/19/2017); GOD Speaking Through Song? (11/01/2013); Why Not One Bible? (11/02/2013)
“Anonymous”, it sounds as if your pastor and others are not aware of some of these issues. Even so, here are some points that may not be familiar, and usually are shared through the Holy Spirit as discovery:
Because music is so widely available in our society for amusement, entertainment, and relaxation, many within the church encounter spiritual confusion concerning the godliness, proper place, and eternal purpose of choirs and musicians for the family of GOD, and his household of faith. On the one hand, most accept that music and singing may add to celebration, praise, and thanksgiving. On the other hand, many fail to correctly understand that dance, “praise”, “prophecy” (i.e., comfort; nourishing and building up the spirit power and presence of the church (edification); exhortation (urging action be taken now) ), and spoken word (we say, poetry) also are important as tools used to give glory and honor to GOD.
Correctly understood, choirs and musicians demonstrate the level of alertness, discipline, obedience, responsiveness, and restraint expressing love that is to be achieved by the entire worship body. They appear within the sanctuary of a church (the most holy place within the building, because it is purified by the divine presence and set apart by the prayers of the congregation) as those who further cleanse, lift, and make fragrant (like incense) the offerings and sacrifices to GOD that are the “calves of our lips.” The active presence who is Eternal GOD appears in the midst of the believers through the device of praise. In addition to praise and worship, the use of music and song appears on the earth in keeping with the patterns revealed to the Patriarchs and Moses showing assembly, exaltation, and service performed in heaven by the holy angels, the four and twenty elders, and the sacred beasts of heaven. Thus, the Psalms of David and those he appointed as music ministers served as liturgy and provided formal structure for worship along with confession, doctrine, guidance, and testimony.
Many are drawn to the church on the basis of their desire to gain, not to give. Deceived by the world, and continuing the ignorance of our “old man,” we seek “freedom(?)”, popularity, prosperity, and success at one another’s expense, and in ways that are contrary to our makeup as vessels of divine spirit through baptism (i.e., death, burial of ones inborn spirit, resurrection as divine seed). All who are “born again” must “grow up again” and become “mature again” by meeting life challenges and “growing pains” on the earth as well as enduring suffering and preparing to be fully transformed when Christ will appear in glory (we say, Advent, harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming).
Establishing and maintaining the necessary fellowship with GOD and one another is not simple, for the process of divine salvation is one of discovery, gradual growth, and undergoing permanent changes as the children of the Most High. We make many mistakes, and so we always seem to be in a process of correction. Yet, herein is a clear indication as to “what’s love got to do with it?” For it is by love we enter into giving, forgiveness, hope, and oneness without sameness. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:
(1.) Psalms 22: 3, King James Version (KJV): 3 But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.
(2.) Zephaniah 3: 17, KJV: 17 The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.
(3.) John 4: 22-24, KJV: 22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Psalms 100: 1-5, KJV: 1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. 2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. 3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. 4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today, reply is made on why leading by the Holy Spirit results in many understandings of Scripture. Using spirit substance that is diffuse, and may move unhindered across the many barriers of time and space, allows divinity to access and reside within the full expanse of living consciousness. Also, speaking and thinking of the church as a single body with Jesus Christ as its head allows us to use the idea that believers are those who become joined to GOD as regenerated limbs and members. In the same way, the fullness of truth has required many covenants, divine laws, sacred proclamations, and statements of prophecy, a broad range of understandings are demanded for there to be a complete, correct revelation of GOD. Salvation requires a broad spectrum of abilities, disciplines, skills, talents, and ways of saying the same thing be brought together; and a vast array of sanctified laborers and workers must be assembled to recruit, instruct, and guide those who will be the new creation. One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:
Why does the Holy Spirit lead people to different understandings of the same Bible?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (Ephesians 4: 4-15, King James Version, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Creator is Different (10/31/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); An Incarnation of Divinity? (10/12/2017); In Spirit and Truth? (10/02/2017); Growth Is Through Edification (06/20/2017); Redemption Through Ordinary Flesh? (04/20/2017); Becoming A Full Person (02/12/2017); GOD Appearing As Word (01/14/2016)
“Anonymous”, salvation may be understood as a divine process to transform sinners to exist as immortal, incorruptible companions of the invisible, unseen GOD, who appeared as Jesus Christ upon the earth, and can be acknowledged as visible through the followers of Christ who are developing believers. The diversity we now see among Christian believers speaks to the fullness of GOD that is being revealed to all created beings and living creatures. While believers are to bear the image of divinity and display inseparable spirit content (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, wrath against sin), we also must complete and fulfill a broad range of duties, offices, sacred practices (we say, sacraments), divine purposes, and priestly tasks. Included are preaching, prophesying, teaching, and witnessing. In addition to differences in age, attitudes, gender, and physical traits (e.g., hair color, height, size, weight), there are important differences in level of humility, insight, readiness to accept and apply instruction by the Holy Spirit (we say, meekness), sanctification, spiritual growth and maturity as well as fervor, willingness to serve, and zeal.
Intellectual understanding is more a function and outcome of operations by the flesh (e.g., emotions, logic, carnal reason, and secular knowledge) than of operations by the Holy Spirit. Sinners must experience baptism (death, burial and the resurrection of their inborn spirit) and be “born again” having divine DNA, so to speak. It is the Spirit they receive that allows them to exist and comprehend as divine offspring, the children of GOD on the earth. All receive the One Seed and Comforter sent by Christ and the Father (we also say, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth); and become set apart (sanctified) to display the same oneness without sameness that exists among the persons of the GODhead. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:
(1.) 1st Corinthians 12: 3-10, King James Version (KJV): 3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
(2.) 1st Corinthians 12: 27-30, KJV: 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
(3.) Romans 8: 13-15, KJV: 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. 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.
There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Romans 8: 5-9, KJV: 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today, topics include death, sacred promises, and the new life for developing Christians. In the same way suffering provides a platform for hope, death provides a platform for faith. Eternal life is GOD’s intent, yet, death is GOD’s tool. Using death GOD adds multiple facets of meaning and substance to the awareness generated by divine law, and operates on the deeper levels of consciousness within created beings and living creatures. Included are appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), emotions (e.g., anger, fear, sorrow), the dynamics of fellowship (e.g., integrity, respect, trust), mental functions (e.g., dreams, expectations, imagination, logic, carnal reason, recall) as well as the oneness without sameness that make possible continuing relationships with divinity. Through influence and imperative, death promotes commitment, repentance and urgency along with permanent changes that come by acquiring sacred knowledge, study of the holy writings, and unselfish service. One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:
If we are all going to die one day than what is the ******* point of life?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. (1st Corinthians 15: 21-26, King James Version, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Reasons for Our Existence? (11/01/2017); Undergoing A Sacred Transformation (10/24/2017); Caution! Work In Progress (10/19/2017); From Dust Thou Art (09/07/2017); Existence, Mortality and GOD? (08/31/2017); Waiting On The Lord? (06/16/2017); The Nature of Death (04/25/2017)
“Anonymous”, having to meet life challenges, endure growing pains, suffer, and complete mortality does not destroy all the beauty, discovery, and joy of living. While they are still living on the earth, those who commit themselves to Jesus Christ for atonement and forgiveness of sin also are endowed with new meanings, practices, divine promises, and ways of understanding that help them to comprehend creation, existence, life, and death are all tools for divine self-expression. The fullness of divinity (we say, “the GODhead;” “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit”) must become knowable, known, accessible and approachable to created beings and living creatures. In addition to inseparable aspects of sacred makeup such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin, the active presence whom we call “GOD” also emanates glory, hope, love, perfection, person, eternal purpose and resurrection from the dead.
The Creator is a deity who also has appeared on the earth using covenant agreements, divine law, form (we say, flesh and blood; Incarnation), promises, and holy writings. GOD continues communication, exchange, and interaction (we say, ongoing personal relationships), to provide added benefit and comfort to mankind, and so that, divinity can be realized as more than an abstraction, or academic concept. For Christian believers, the “quality of life” on the earth is enhanced through clear statements from GOD that set believers apart for service (we say, command, instruct, sanctify) and further prepare them to exist as immortal, incorruptible companions of divinity.
Christians are not granted ability to read other people’s thoughts, or predict the future; instead, they are made certain and sure through divine promises and prophecy. In water baptism the believer undergoes death, burial and rebirth having divine DNA, so to speak; and all who are “born again,” must “grow up again” as the sons and daughters of GOD, who display divine spirit content through their lifestyle and daily routines. Developing believers are to become mature (we say, ripe for harvest) to be removed from the earth at the appearing of Jesus Christ (Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming). For us, then, there always is great excitement, for the Scriptures declare we will not all be in our graves at his coming. Neither men nor angels can say the day or hour when he shall return; and all are encouraged to stay ready, and remain vigilant. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:
(1.) 2nd Corinthians 1: 8-10, King James Version (KJV): 8 For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: 9 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: 10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;
(2.) Romans 6: 3-5, KJV: 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. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
(3.) Revelation 21: 6-8, KJV: 6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 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.
There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and made a part of our own spirit makeup. (For example, (4.) 1st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, KJV: 13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
The real logic of christianity is the hatred of our own human nature?
THE GOLDEN ARROW: If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him; If iniquity be in thine hand, put it far away, and let not wickedness dwell in thy tabernacles. For then shalt thou lift up thy face without spot; yea, thou shalt be stedfast, and shalt not fear: Because thou shalt forget thy misery, and remember it as waters that pass away: And thine age shall be clearer than the noonday: thou shalt shine forth, thou shalt be as the morning. And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope; yea, thou shalt dig about thee, and thou shalt take thy rest in safety. Also thou shalt lie down, and none shall make thee afraid; yea, many shall make suit unto thee. But the eyes of the wicked shall fail, and they shall not escape, and their hope shall be as the giving up of the ghost. (Job 11: 13-20, King James Version, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Foolish People and Unwise (10/26/2017); Without the Divine Image? (10/15/2017); Rebirth, Growth and Transformation (09/29/2017); Knowing the Invisible GOD (09/17/2017); Corruption of Ones Spirit? (05/14/2017); An Habitation of GOD (07/24/2016); The Cross and Mankind (05/13/2016)
“john”, I would like to share some ideas from Christian belief, here, that may be new to a lot of people. While mankind has been “made in the image of GOD,” from the beginning, man has been made as a temporal creation intended to exist within a framework of time and space. Man was made with the intent that he pass through change, discovery, growth and progression. Man is to exist as a companion to divinity, and must receive a complete and correct revelation of divinity whereby the active presence who is GOD is made knowable, known, accessible, and approachable.
Independence and separation between mankind and the Creator are required for humanity to display authenticity as the handiwork of GOD, and genuine integrity as part of Creation. Aspects of the living such as consciousness, feeling, mind, and self-will must be able to freely interact with and respond to operations within themselves as well as acknowledge objects, other created beings and living creatures within the spheres of life, and the Creator who is sovereign over all.
Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and all divine order. That being said, the operations of sin are contrary to human nature, yet, sin may dominate awareness and self-will in the form of appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching) and emotion/mental functions (e.g., anger, desire, fear, imagination, recall). The influence and power of sin is so great that countless people have been inclined to think of sin as natural, normal, and a “necessary” part of the human condition.
In the same way, we are cautioned and given instruction to avoid counterfeit money in the market place, mature Christian believers are cautioned to avoid the counterfeits of human nature that are created through sin. Developing believers are to practice discernment (using their own imparted spirit content from the makeup of GOD as a standard to recognize and respond to the same spirit as it resides within doctrines, events, oneself, other persons, holy writings, godly possibilities, prophecy, etc.). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible to present the “logic” of divine process that centers in love, not hate:
(1.) Galatians 5: 16-23, KJV: 16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
(2.) Romans 6: 3-13, KJV: 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. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin. 8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (3.) 1st John 4: 7-11, KJV: 7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today, points are shared that speak to the divine purposes for the existence of mankind. Several prophets and spokespersons sent from GOD have cried, What is man? Their intent was neither to condemn divinity, nor to curse mankind. Rather, they were calling for relief from GOD while expressing desperation and frustration that life appears too short, is overly difficult, has too few moments of genuine joy, and can be utterly unsatisfying. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Esmeralda” (Level 1 with 143 points, a member since October 26, 2016) posted the following:
What is the reason for our existence?
do you think that we were created to just live, do whatever we want then die? or that there is actually a purpose for all our lives.
Update: Guys, I know the reason for my existence, I'm asking about YOUR opinion.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: When I say, My bed shall comfort me, my couch shall ease my complaints; Then thou scarest me with dreams, and terrifiest me through visions: So that my soul chooseth strangling, and death rather than my life. I loathe it; I would not live alway: let me alone; for my days are vanity. What is man, that thou shouldest magnify him? and that thou shouldest set thine heart upon him? And that thou shouldest visit him every morning, and try him every moment? How long wilt thou not depart from me, nor let me alone till I swallow down my spittle? I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself? And why dost thou not pardon my transgression, and take away my iniquity? for now shall I sleep in the dust; and thou shalt seek me in the morning, but I shall not be. (Job 7: 13-21, King James Version, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Creator is Different (10/31/2017); From Dust Thou Art (09/07/2017); “Occupy Till I Come” (08/30/2017); The Quality of Life? (03/29/2017); Reflections on Existence (12/19/2016); Eternal Life From GOD (10/24/2016); Life Is In Blood (12/08/2015); All Is Vanity? (07/28/2015)
“Esmeralda”, here, are some points to consider that might help many avoid spiritual confusion:
(1.) As mature thinkers, we usually attribute “motives”, “purpose”, and “reason” to living individuals who display intellect and mind. When you ask, What is the reason, we tend to respond, The “reason” given by whom? Whose reason? And, Are you asking us to tell you GOD’s reason? Are you really ready to accept what someone else will tell you that they have received from GOD?
(2.) As a matter of human expression, there might be countless responses that describe specific aims, goals and objectives of the living, yet, do not answer such features as a desire “to exist” or “the will to live” (that we often deal with as though it means the same as “intent”) among the living.
(3.) Everything that exists does not have life; thus, a cadaver or corpse may exist. A “living soul” requires life essence (i.e., breath, spirit, Word) imparted from the makeup of GOD as well as a material form such as the human body.
(4.) Resurrection of the body as a Christian belief, acknowledges that ones spirit continues on some plane of existence such as limbo or purgatory—that is not a sphere of life such as earth, heaven, the universe—even though the material body has been destroyed.
(5.) For mature Christians, created beings and living creatures exist as emanations and expressions of divine order, eternal purpose, and sovereign will. Where the living have received fresh endowments of the inseparable aspects of spirit imparted from GOD, they will “appear”, display sacred image, and serve as divine offspring (we say, joint heirs with Christ, the children of GOD).
(6.) Completeness, existence, life, person, and presence are important aspects of divine fullness. Where we understand our own desire to call out and hear an echo, many of us also understand why GOD would prepare mankind to be an immortal, incorruptible companion.
There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (7.) 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
