(05/08/2019) Blaspheming the Holy Spirit

Today, the reply addresses blaspheming the Holy Spirit as a transgression of relationship with divinity that will never be forgiven or tolerated, rather than a transgression of sacred law that may be covered and dismissed. Forgiveness for sin may only appear within the framework of a living relationship with divinity who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the universe. Just as there must be the workings of sacred knowledge within the awareness and self-will of the living for them to correctly grasp divine meanings and values, those coming to GOD through Jesus Christ are to be in accord with the full Godhead through the character, makeup and life process of Jesus. Maturity and unchanging elements for relationship are to appear that include acknowledging atonement for sin through the blood and body of Jesus as well as receiving justification from the Father through the righteous works of the Son. The followers of Christ are to develop willingness to be held accountable for ones own choices and decisions, integrity, respect, and unselfishness. It is written: Yeshayah 57: 15, Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB): 15 For thus saith the High and Exalted, Shokhen Ad (the One Who abideth forever, i.e., the Shekhinah) Kadosh Shmo; I dwell in marom v’kadosh (the high and holy place), with him also that is of a contrite and lowly ruach, to revive the ruach of the shefalim (humble, lowly ones) and to revive the lev nidka’im (contrite of heart). Isaiah 57: 15, King James Version (KJV): 15 For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. The writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Yoel Cohen” (Level 5 with 5,112 points, a member since December 22, 2017) posted the following:

Christians why is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit unforgivable?

For example the Pharisees in the New Testament accused Jesus of being possessed with evil spirits/demons. At other times they accused him of following Satan. Apparently this is unforgivable. Why?

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32 And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.

"But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation." Mark 3:29

"Are they not the ones who blaspheme the honorable name by which you were called?" James 2:7

"Attributing the Holy Spirit’s work to an impure spirit (v. 30) is roughly tantamount to calling God Satan. " - BibleGateway

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For if you live in accordance with the basar (old fallen humanity under slave master Chet Kadmon) you will certainly die; but if by the Ruach Hakodesh you put to death the [shameful] acts of the body, you will live. For as many as are led by the Ruach HaElohim, they are bnei HaElohim. For you did not receive a spirit of avdut, falling back into pachad (fear); but you received the Ruach of Mishpat HaBanim (Adoption), having Ma’amad HaBanim (the standing as Sons [9: 4]), by which we cry, "Abba, Avinu"! The Ruach Hakodesh himself bears eidus (witness) with our [regenerate, Yn 3: 6] ruach that we are bnei HaElohim. And if bnei HaElohim, then also yoreshim (heirs) of G-d and co-heirs (Ro 4: 13) together with Moshiach, provided that we suffer with him in order that we might also be set in kavod (glory, eschatological glorification) with him. (Kehillah 8: 13-17, Orthodox Jewish Bible, OJB)

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. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 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. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 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. (Romans 8: 13-17, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: From Spirit Not Mud (02/26/2019); Discovering The Holy Spirit (12/23/2018); Saying “In God’s Name” (10/22/2018); Completeness, Integrity And Wholeness? (06/21/2018); Iniquity Forgiven? (02/16/2016); When GOD Never Forgives? (12/28/2015); Blasphemy Against the GODhead (05/06/2014); Offenses to GODhead (05/07/2014)

“Yoel Cohen”, blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is more than simply a verbal behavior, defaming and denying the Spirit, or the use of profanity and vulgar language. To blaspheme the Spirit (we also say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth) is to betray, despise, lie against, and refuse to be in accord with the Spirit. Divinity has appeared among mankind on the earth using flesh as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation). Where transgressions of divine law destroyed relationship between the Creator and the created, Christ revealed and made known unseen divine forgiveness, rebirth, reconciliation, sacrifice, and sanctification as sacred operations for repairing divine relationship with the living. The Holy Spirit continues the sacred works begun and demonstrated on the earth through the ministry of Jesus, yet, does not carry out a discrete agenda that is his own, and that exists as independent from Christ.

Among mature Christian believers, multiple streams of truth come together when seeking to apprehend the prohibition against blaspheming the Holy Spirit. In addition to acknowledging the character, makeup and process of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) there must be a realization that personhood (we say, the image of God) imparted to mankind is to display the inseparable aspects of personhood that exist among the Godhead. Included are commitment, faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Communication, exchange and interaction with divinity for created beings and living creatures occurs through divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD.

GOD is active presence whose makeup and substance is spirit (we also say, breath; life essence; word). Spirit is diffuse, invisible, and has no material limits. Thus, men do not continue in direct personal relationship with the Holy Spirit so much as they serve as vessels that may contain gifts from the body and makeup of divinity (divine DNA, so to speak). Containing divine spirit, men and women are the children of GOD, sacred offspring, and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. Since the fall of Adam, and the condition of mortality being made constant for mankind, men on the earth may only connect, be joined to, or express themselves in continuing relationship with divinity through the ministry and works of Jesus Christ as spokesperson, Redeemer and Savior, and the Holy Spirit as the agent of the Lord. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Yochanan 16: 7-15, Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB): 7 But I tell HaEmes (the truth), it is better for you that I go away. For if I do not go away, the Melitz Yosher (Praklit, Advocate, Counselor, Helper in Court) will not come to you. But if go, I will send Him (the Ruach Hakodesh) to you. 8 And having come, that one will expose and convict the Olam Hazeh concerning Chet and concerning Tzedek and concerning Mishpat: 9 Concerning Chet (Sin), because they do not have emunah in me; 10 Concerning Tzedek [DANIEL 9: 24] because I go to HaAv and no longer do you see me; 11 And concerning Mishpat (Judgment) because the Sar HaOlam Hazeh has been judged. 12 Yet many things I have to tell you, but you are not able to bear them now. 13 But when that One has come, the Ruach Hakodesh, the Ruach HaEmes, He will guide you in all truth. [TEHILLIM 25: 5] For He will not speak on His own authority, but what things He will hear, He will speak, and the things that are to come He will announce to you. 14 That One will give kavod to me, because He will receive of what is mine, and will announce it to you. 15 All things which HaAv has are mine; therefore, I said that of mine He receives and will announce it to you.

John 16: 7-15, King James Version (KJV): 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. 8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; 10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; 11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. 12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. 15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

2. Yehudim in Moshiach 10: 28-31, OJB: 28 Anyone who was doiche (rejecting or setting aside) the Torah of Moshe Rabbeinu, upon the dvar of SHNI EDIM O AL PI SHLOSHA EDIM ("Testimony of two or three witnesses" DEVARIM 19: 15), dies without rachamim.

29 By how much worse onesh (penalty) do you think the one will be considered worthy who trampled on the Ben HaElohim and also treated as mechallel kodesh (profane) the Dahm HaBrit which set him apart mekudash and also committed Chillul Hashem gidduf against the Ruach Hakodesh of Hashem’s chesed? 30 For we have da’as of the One who said, LI NAKAM V’SHILEM ("Vengeance is mine and I will repay") [DEVARIM 32: 35] and again YADIN HASHEM AMMO ("The L-rd will judge his people" DEVARIM 32: 36). 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the Elohim Chayyim.

Hebrews 10: 28-31, KJV: 28 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: 29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Kehillah in Rome 8: 3-9, OJB: 3 For what the Torah was unable to do in that it was weak through the basar (fallen human nature under Chet Kadmon and without hitkhadshut renewal and regeneration by the Ruach Hakodesh), G-d sent his own Ben HaElohim [Moshiach] in the very demut (likeness) of the basar of sinful humanity and as a chattat (sin offering, sin atoning sacrifice, 2C 5: 21) and both pronounced and effected a sentence of death on HaChet baBasar (Sin in the Flesh, in the fallen old humanity) 4 In order that the maleh chukat haTorah (the full statute requirement of the Torah, see VAYIKRA 18: 5) might be fulfilled in us whose halakhah is in the Derech [HaChayyim] (the Way of Life) according to the Ruach Hakodesh and not in accordance with the basar. 5 For those who exist in terms of the basar take the side of the basar, whereas those who exist in terms of the Ruach [Hakodesh] take the side of the Ruach Hakodesh. 6 For the way of thinking of the basar is mavet (death), whereas the way of thinking of the Ruach Hakodesh is Chayyim and Shalom. 7 Because the way of thinking of the basar is hostility, eyvah (enmity BERESHIS 3: 15) toward G-d, for it does not submit itself to the Torah of G-d; for it cannot. 8 And those who are in the basar are not able to please Hashem. 9 However, you are not in the basar [i.e., unregenerate] but in the Ruach Hakodesh, assuming that the Ruach Hakodesh of Hashem does indeed dwell in you—if anyone does not have the Ruach HaMoshiach, that person does not belong to Moshiach.

Romans 8: 3-9, KJV: 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 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.

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: The Decalogue (the Ten Commandments) does not use the words “blasphemy”, “blaspheming”, “the Godhead,” or “the Holy Spirit.” Even so, developing and mature Christian believers usually discern and recognize the first commandments as the divine statements that provide instruction for genuine reverence and continuing relationship with divine fullness. It is written: Shemot 20: 1-7, Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB): 1 Then Elohim spoke all these words, saying, 2 I am Hashem Eloheicha, Who brought thee out of Eretz Mitzrayim, out of the bais avadim (house of slaves). 3 Thou shalt have no elohim acherim in My presence. 4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any pesel, or any temunah of any thing that is in Shomayim above, or that is in ha’aretz beneath, or that is in the mayim under ha’aretz. 5 Thou shalt not tishtacheveh to them, nor serve them; for I Hashem Eloheicha am an El kanna, visiting the avon Avot upon the Banim unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Me; 6 But showing chesed unto thousands of them that love Me, and are shomer over My mitzvot. 7 Thou shalt not take the Shem Hashem Eloheicha in vain; for Hashem will not hold him guiltless that taketh Shmo in vain.

Exodus 20: 1-7, King James Version (KJV): 1 And God spake all these words, saying, 2 I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me. 4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. 5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; 6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. 7 Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

Orthodox Jewish Bible (OJB). Copyright © 2002, 2003, 2008, 2010, 2011 by Artists for Israel International.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/07/2019) Where Be His Miracles?

A depiction of the first miracle by Jesus, water turned to wine (see image reference below).

Today, reply is on faith and miracles as sacred signs within the divine process of revelation. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

There were so many mindblowing miracles and events back in the day. Why not any more? It almost seems they could have been exaggerated a bit?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when the people were gathered thick together, he began to say, This is an evil generation: they seek a sign; and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the prophet. 30 For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation. 31 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here. 32 The men of Nineve shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. (Luke 11: 29-32, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Prophecy And Divine Process (04/15/2019); Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); How GOD Is Communicating (10/31/2018); Sacred Operations By GOD (04/12/2018); An Act of GOD? (12/20/2017); Miracles Are Not Everlasting (07/18/2017); Diversity and Prophetic Gifts (11/22/2016); Why Did Jesus Heal? (02/03/2015)

“Anonymous”, many Christian believers also have posed questions similar to yours. Others have expressed confusion, doubt, and uncertainty regarding their own faith, and the presence of divinity truly being within their own lives. Miracles have to be acknowledged and apprehended within a full framework of divine revelation that includes the Incarnation of GOD as Jesus Christ, and embodiment of the Holy Spirit within those on the earth through endowments of divine life essence (breath; spirit; word). Miracles appear as sacred events called into being by GOD to fulfill divine purposes, and are not earthly occult and natural tools (e.g., deceit, illusion, magic, witchcraft) controlled and used by believers. Witnessing miracles do not always increase a person’s faith. Reactions to miracles should include awe, gratitude, and wonder; instead, miracles often are accompanied by disagreement, fear, panic, shock, skepticism, and personal testimony that is incoherent and unclear. Miracles may not take the place of faith, because faith exists as an inseparable aspect of divine fullness, and may be imparted to the living along with such sacred content from the makeup of GOD as holiness, hope, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Judges 6: 7-14, King James Version (KJV): 7 And it came to pass, when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD because of the Midianites, 8 That the LORD sent a prophet unto the children of Israel, which said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I brought you up from Egypt, and brought you forth out of the house of bondage; 9 And I delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all that oppressed you, and drave them out from before you, and gave you their land; 10 And I said unto you, I am the LORD your God; fear not the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but ye have not obeyed my voice. 11 And there came an angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah, that pertained unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. 12 And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour. 13 And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the Lord be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? but now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites. 14 And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?

2. 1^st Corinthians 12: 27-31, 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? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. John 20: 24-29, KJV: 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/06/2019) Works Without Divine Faith?

Today, the reply is on works that are dead and vain because they have no content of divine faith. We are more likely to realize another person’s works have spiritual importance, meaning, substance and value, where their conduct clearly displays spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD has been infused within their own work by heartfelt care and effort. In addition to commitment, conviction and discernment, longsuffering, unselfishness, and zeal should appear. Admonitions to believers of the early church that were delivered by the Apostle Paul come to mind, once again: Galatians 3: 1-7, King James Version (KJV): 1 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? 2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? 4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. 5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. 7 Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. Also, Galatians 4: 11, KJV: 11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “David” (Level 7 with 172,651 points, a member since September 05, 2009) posted the following:

Christians, We Know Faith Without Works is Dead. But What is Works Without Faith?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, my servants shall eat, but ye shall be hungry: behold, my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be ashamed: Behold, my servants shall sing for joy of heart, but ye shall cry for sorrow of heart, and shall howl for vexation of spirit. And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen: for the Lord GOD shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name: That he who blesseth himself in the earth shall bless himself in the God of truth; and he that sweareth in the earth shall swear by the God of truth; because the former troubles are forgotten, and because they are hid from mine eyes. For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy. And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying. There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed. And they shall build houses, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them. They shall not build, and another inhabit; they shall not plant, and another eat: for as the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands. They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them. And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent’s meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD. (Isaiah 65: 13-25, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Doing The Devil's Work? (02/21/2019); Faith Throughout the Scriptures? (01/04/2019); Known By His Fruit (11/04/2018); Claiming To Know GOD? (09/14/2018); Deeds Of The Law? (09/10/2017); Blessed In Our Deeds (05/29/2018); Achieving Feats of Righteousness? (05/05/2017); Operations of Christian Faith (04/28/2017)

“David”, developing Christian believers are encouraged to examine the sacred process and substance of their own actions and works. Using the spirit content they have received from the makeup of divinity, they are to recognize and respond to events, possibilities, proclamations, prophecies, the holy writings, etc. Where spirit substance is lacking, activity is labeled as “self-promotion”, “vain”, “vainglory”, and “vanity” (i.e., empty; impotent; pointless; unfruitful; a waste of time). Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Psalms 127: 1, King James Version (KJV): 1 Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.

2. 2^nd Chronicles 25: 1-2, KJV: 1 Amaziah was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. And his mother’s name was Jehoaddan of Jerusalem. 2 And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, but not with a perfect heart.

3. Hebrews 11: 6, KJV: 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 2^nd Peter 1: 2-10, 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. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; 6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; 7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. 10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/05/2019) The Water of Life

John 7: 38, King James Version (KJV)

Today, reply is on mankind receiving “the water of life,” spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. Had Moses not called forth water from the Rock for those who left Egypt, as many as 3½ million might have died of thirst in the wilderness. A small trickle of water, a geyser, or even a fountain would not have been enough for the men, women, and children to say nothing of the camels, chickens, cattle, flocks, and other livestock. Their deliverance from death required a lake, or river of life be provided. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 6 with 15,612 points, a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:

Jesus describes the water of life in revelation 21 or 22 - how would you describe this water?

To me it's the holiness of God that heals all emotional, mental, psychological, spiritual and physical pain. Some experience it after death and some experience it while they are still alive.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. (1^st Corinthians 1: 1-4, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Water That Imparts Holiness? (03/26/2019); Built Upon The Spirit (11/29/2018); The Water, The Fire (10/10/2017); Christ The Solid Rock? (08/07/2016); A Dry Thirsty Land (05/01/2016); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); My Brother’s Keeper (04/05/2013)

“Breakthrough”, mature Christian believers are willing to consider that, from preexistence, and before the beginnings of existence and life for mankind, the process and substance encountered by divinity was in constant flux, and motion that had no specific direction. While multiple streams continually crashed against one another, ebbed, flowed and swelled, they were neither liquid, nor material in form as we know today. Emanations from divine fullness included sacred law and divine order that suppressed chaos, and reconstituted the universe. Properly understood, existence and life are inseparable aspects of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Joined to “oneness without sameness” and such other features as faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin, these aspects of Spirit appeared embodied on earth in Jesus Christ (the Incarnation). Sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus are to receive a fresh endowment of “life essence” (breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD. This deposit of sacred substance has been called the blood and body of Jesus; the divine nature; and virtue. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Luke 6: 17-19, King James Version (KJV): 17 And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; 18 And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed. 19 And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all.

2. John 6: 50-58, KJV: 50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. 51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. 52 The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? 53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56 He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. 58 This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.

3. John 4: 7-15, KJV: 7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. 8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.) 9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. 10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. 11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? 12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? 13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. 15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Revelation 22: 16-17, KJV: 16 I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. 17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:53 PM, May 04, 2019 @ https://precioussheepofrenown.files.wordpress.com/2017/07/john-7.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/03/2019) Counsels On Shunning Sinners

The image depicts the predicament of saints joined to sinners, Be not unequally yoked (see image reference below).

Today, reply is on ministry to chasten sinners who are members within a church congregation through avoidance and separation called “shunning”. Instances and offenses can appear in the household of faith where a member is to be cut off. Thus, it is written: 1^st Corinthians 5: 1-8, King James Version (KJV): 1 It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife. 2 And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. 3 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, 4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, 5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. 6 Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? 7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Christians, does bible say to shun people who sin?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. (Jude 1: 20-25, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Displaying A “Christian Personality”? (04/19/2019); The Church At Corinth (04/11/2019); Suffering Among the Saved (03/12/2019); The Workings of Divinity? (01/15/2019); Be Not Unequally Yoked (04/16/2018); Ye That Work Iniquity (09/24/2018); Divine Discipline? (12/24/2015)

“Anonymous”, here are counsels shared among those of the early church that developing Christians today also are careful to examine and apply:

1. 2^nd Corinthians 6: 14, King James Version (KJV): 14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

2. Proverbs 4: 13-19, KJV: 13 Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life. 14 Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. 15 Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. 16 For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall. 17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence. 18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. 19 The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.

3. Ephesians 5: 5-11, KJV: 5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them. 8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: 9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) 10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.

4. 2^nd Timothy 3: 1-5, KJV: 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. 2^nd Thessalonians 3: 13-16, KJV: 13 But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. 14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 16 Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 12:57 PM, May 03, 2019 @ https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRppN5uTD_hfq5bQvnXzLUtUCA9W-XSCjxZtQoMa6bG4L74OjNC7gJms_CRc5-4BU2mE5TvPkGp8-75AnD1kJSyMQFV3aYCLR_AFtHMn9cgBYIFi43ANXNIh6AlUP0qU-NUq_OptqTabgO/s1600/unequal-oxen-yoked.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/02/2019) Two Frameworks For Dominion?

Today, reply responds to a presentation made by Danny Danon, Israel’s Ambassador to the Security Council of the United Nations, April 29, 2019, on the “divine deed” of the Jewish people to the land of Israel. The benefits and privileges of divine inheritance must be apprehended through sacred process and spiritual discernment, rather than cultural, legal, geopolitical, and social frameworks. In accordance with national economies and financial procedures, deeds and documents that record purchases and transfers of real property (land) and chattel (material goods) are acknowledged and registered by governments for purposes of allotments and taxation. Deeds also pertain to debts and agreements for payment (we say, transaction fees, loans, mortgages). Abraham’s purchase of a field at Machpelah for a possession and a burying place occurred before an assembly within an open forum at Mamre, and was therefore in such a framework of public witness, procedures, and standards. Abraham’s receipt of the land of Canaan was by inheritance and through a framework of promises made to Adam and Eve whereby the seed of the woman eventually would prevail. Those insisting that the lawful framework for buying and selling must be maintained when considering the status of modern Israel, rather than that for faith and continued interaction with divinity, also are obliged to observe all the other commands, principles, and sanctions that are aspects of the same law. Similarly, those standing on the foundation of ongoing relationship with divinity must acknowledge the full range of promises, prophecies, spirit process, and spirit substance. There should be no switching between frameworks. Maturity is only displayed through accountability, commitment, consistency, integrity and stability. Thus, we are reminded: James 2: 10-11, King James Version (KJV): 10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. 11 For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

Israel belongs to the Jews -- given by God?

Israel's Ambassador Takes Out Bible at UN to Prove Jewish People's Claim to Israel

Emily Jones (May 1, 2019)

"The Qur'an itself accepts the divine deed of the Jewish people to the land of Israel." -Danny Danon, Israel's US Ambassador

(New York, NY) — [CBN News] Israel's UN ambassador Danny Danon used the Bible to defend the Jewish people's claim to the land of Israel during a special session at the United Nations Security Council on Monday. (Image: Screengrab-AP/via CBN News)

Danon was tasked with the job of proving the case for Jews' connection to the Holy Land during the session. He outlined four reasons, "the Bible, history, international law, and the pursuit of international peace and security."

In a dramatic moment, Danon opened the Bible and read aloud God's covenant with Abraham from Genesis 17: "And I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you throughout the generations for an everlasting covenant. And I will give to you and your descendants after you all the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession and I will be their God."

Danon then raised up the Bible, turned to attendees and said, "This is the deed to our land."

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.  But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. (James 2: 19-24, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Abraham In Divine Judgment (03/10/2019); Sacred Characters, Not Fictional (12/12/2018); Judgment Against The Canaanites (08/01/2018); The First “Chosen” People (05/03/2018); Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); A Circumcision of Hearts (01/22/2018); Meek Abram (10/17/2010); What is Worship? (10/18/2010)

“Anonymous”, Abraham was the “Friend of God” where Moses was a covenant partner. Here are some points from the Bible that developing Christian believers are careful to examine when seeking to correctly understand mankind’s dominion over the earth, relationship to divinity through divine utterance (e.g., proclamation; promise; prophecy), and the authority of sacred records. It was not a secular system, or geopolitical economy wherein the transactions between GOD and Abraham occurred. While there were exchanges that compare to issuing promissory notes, the lawful transfer of goods and property through inheritance, and conduct to acknowledge covenant relationship (e.g., circumcision) and mutual obligation, all was anchored in operations of divinity to impart spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that included faith, hope, joy, knowledge, trust, and vision. The establishment and fulfillment of the early covenants are also on record as historical events; yet, there are many subtle points that are often overlooked. It is written:

1. Genesis 18: 18-19, King James Version (KJV): 18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? 19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

2. Genesis 15: 18, KJV: 18 In the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates:

3. Acts 7: 1-8, KJV: 1 Then said the high priest, Are these things so? 2 And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, 3 And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee. 4 Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein ye now dwell. 5 And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child. 6 And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should bring them into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years. 7 And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place. 8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.

4. Romans 4: 13-15, KJV: 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. 14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: 15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. Galatians 3: 16-18, KJV: 16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. 18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 10:57 AM, May 02, 2019 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/GYJT71i9nGI/hqdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/01/2019) Two Uses For Resurrection

A depiction of Lazarus raised from the dead.

Today, reply is on two distinct uses of resurrection that appear within the holy writings; entrance of the dead into eternal life through Jesus Christ; and, that all who appear in the sacred presence for tribunals of final judgment must be alive. Those who were returned to life from the dead while on the earth neither completed their judgment, nor altered their condition of mortality. In the same way, believers must distinguish between Lazarus in the parable of the rich man and the beggar, and Lazarus, brother to Mary and Martha, whom Jesus commanded to come forth from his resting place alive, developing believers are to exercise alertness, discernment, and vigilance to recognize and respond to the many subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden shifts in meaning and value) that appear within the course of our speaking about judgment and resurrection. Many are sure that only by answering in resurrection will mankind see the complete fulfillment of divine cleansing, healing, exorcism, and the perfection of human godliness. Distinctions must be acknowledged between the first and second judgments that are completed through (1) the first and second resurrections, (2) demonstrations where the dead are made alive, (3) apprehending Jesus Christ through the death, the resurrection and the judgment the Savior had to undergo, and (4) sacred resurrection where the dead are enabled to appear within the tribunals of divine judgment. These things are not provided to cause confusion, or humble the living before divinity; rather, they are shared to make the entire Creation aware of the difference between dying a second time after being raised from death, and the second death that will complete divine judgment, end human mortality, and totally eliminate the operations of sin. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Blue Ridge” (Level 1 with 24 points, a member since January 05, 2019) posted the following:

Jesus Raised the Dead?

During His earthly ministry, Jesus raised several people back to life. Great, right? The problem is that each person that was brought back to life had to die again. Horrible! Let me get this straight. I thought resurrection meant BRAND NEW BODY NEVER TO DIE AGAIN. What do you say? Why did Jesus raise people back to life knowing that they were going to die again? Wow!! Dying TWICE in one life time must suck big time. What do you say?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 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. (Revelation 20: 4-6, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Name “Resurrection Sunday” (04/23/2019); Satisfying Creation and Law (01/22/2019); Judgment Perfects Divine Revelation (12/18/2018); How Sinners Become Perfect (11/26/2018); The Elimination of Sin (11/25/2018); Challenged To Explain Resurrection (10/08/2018); Bereavement, Death and Suffering (11/10/2017); The Place of Torment? (08/21/2017); The Administration Of Death (07/11/2017)

“Blue Ridge” in Christian belief, resurrection is a sacred process made visible to mankind on the earth through divine revelation and Incarnation that display otherwise invisible aspects of divine fullness (i.e., Deity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). Those raised from the dead by Jesus Christ while on the earth were entered into his resurrection, and appear as new life, rebirth, and new creation. The dead are returned to exist within communities and relationships of love, of ministering the gospel, and of service to the Savior. While they live they experience divine joy, and are becoming mature/ripe for harvest (we say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming) when the Lord will receive those who are his from the earth. In addition to inseparable aspects imparted from the makeup of GOD (e.g., balance, completeness, dominion, faith, holiness, personhood, utterance, wisdom, wrath against sin), resurrection demonstrates the authority, prerogative and sovereignty of divine will over existence, life, mortality, mechanical process and natural law as well as forgiveness, immortality, incorruptibility, and reconciliation. Resurrection as a divine operation also is used to ensure that the dead will appear before divinity in living tribunals for final judgment that are set apart (sanctified) by impartiality, mercy, permanence for its renderings, and righteousness. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Romans 6: 3-7, King James Version (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.

2. Romans 6: 8-13, KJV: 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.

3. Philippians 3: 7-14, KJV: 7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, 9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: 10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. 12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Luke 16: 22-31, KJV: 22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; 23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. 25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. 26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. 27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house: 28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. 29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. 30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. 31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 9:25 PM, April 30, 2019 @ http://openmyeyeslord.net/Website%20Images/Lazarus.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC