Today, response is made to a peculiar depiction of mankind as a moral being, and that contrasts human behavior to that of animals, rather than to Christ. No BATTLE AXE appears. The writer at “Yahoo!7 Answers (Australia)” using the ID “Dave D” (Level 6 with 12,167 points, a member since 02 November 2012) posted the following originally asked on Yahoo! Answers United States:
Fellow Christians, Can you please give me your feed back on this?
I see the deepest meaning in the story of Adam and Eve in that man became FULLY human, whether you believe in evolution or an instanteous creation, when man developed a conscience (ate from the Tree of Knoweledge of Good and Evil). From that, as described in Genesis, flowed an awareness of shame, toil, pain, suffering and death.
When you think of it that is in fact what separates us from the rest of the animals... man alone makes decisions based on moral choices or good/evil or right/wrong. A wolf does not feel shame. He does not consider the amount of running or toil he does to catch a deer. When he has pain he does not expect nor receive compassion from other pack members. He does not bemoan his fate as to why he should have pain while others of his pack do not. When he dies no one mourns his passing, but may in fact rejoice in the new meal that he has provided the pack.
Man on the other hand makes moral decisions and thus does eventually learn the concepts of compassion, empathy, and sympathy. It is only when we learn those that we can learn to love selflessly. (And it is only when we learn selfless love that we can be one with God.)
It was that perception which totally changed my opinion of the story from an "ancient story of creation" to in fact one of the most profound stories in all of literature because hidden beneath the words is a description of the entire purpose of life. But I have just had a further insight as well.
In the development of a conscience man has, like a computer, reduced ALL of his decisions to a 1 or a 0.... a yes or no or right or wrong all based on what we see as good/evil or bad. It is this fact that is responsible for ALL of out advancement. Which is better... to live in caves or to live in huts? to live in huts or in houses? to have a 1 story building or a 110 story one? to paint on the walls of the cave or not? In the decision of good and evil is at the core of all of our achievements, all of our art and architecture, our desire to improve as an individual AND our realization of the existence of God, for how could this knowledge of good or evil possibly exist it being taught to us. A wild animal does not have this capablility and therefore is incapable of advancement. A dog, who has learned from us, certainly may be capable of them on a rudimentary basis.
Just from my thinking about this I can see some areas which require deeper thought, but I would like to get your input.
Thank you.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. (Galatians 1: 3-12, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Acknowledging Divinity? (03/30/2013); Animals Do Not Sin? (09/29/2013); GOD is Acknowledging (09/30/2013); The Price of Humanity? (12/13/2012); Remembering the Holocaust? (12/14/2012); An Attack Upon Creation? (12/08/2012); The Focus of Judgment (12/09/2012); Before the Fruit? (11/10/2012); Why “Mysterious” (11/11/2012)
“Dave D”, here are a few points you may find useful to avoid spiritual confusion as you continue to grow in the things of GOD through Jesus Christ:
(1.) Your description of mankind does not sound like one that has come forth from Christ. Because we are those having new birth (reborn from divine DNA, so to speak), our understandings are being reshaped and transformed to express divine perspectives, sacred truths, and eternal purposes. Increasingly, the definitions we use should conform to pronouncements and standards that come to us by the word from GOD (we say, the holy writings, the Scriptures, the imparted, indwelling Spirit from GOD). To reveal the person of GOD, the Bible describes multiple sacred events using thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years.
(2.) The Spirit of Prophecy (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth) operates upon and through awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures. Thereby Christian believers are supplied with the same spirit content that exists as Almighty GOD. Included are inseparable aspects of divinity such as faith, forbearance, gratitude, holiness, joy, love, righteousness, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(3.) While the Gospel we are called to spread speaks primarily to the appearance of GOD incarnate (i.e., in flesh as Jesus Christ through such features as birth, earthly ministry, death, resurrection, sanctification and ascension) to accomplish the permanent redemption, judgment, salvation, and sanctification of mankind, believers are also to encourage the expectation (we say, hope) that sin will be eliminated, and mortality will be ended. Mankind is to be a living companion to an eternal GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) The divine intent is that mankind be made immortal and incorruptible. The tools for such a cosmic transformation must include change, death, existence, flesh, life essence (we say, spirit), personness, and utterance (we say, breath, word). Finite will is not a factor. For in the same way mankind had no part in determining and completing the divine processes of the Creation, mankind does not perform the essential processes of judgment, Salvation, and the endowment of eternal life.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
Grow in grace
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Divine authority to prevent sin among the angels is the topic, today; and there is more on choosing what we view determines peace of mind. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “^” (Level 6 with 15,389 points, a member since May 20, 2012) posted the following that was originally asked at Yahoo Answers Canada:
Could God have prevented Satan (or any Angel) from sinning by giving them Commandments?
Whether God knew Satan would sin or not could God have prevented the fall of the Angels if God had given them commandments? If God could not prevent sin then He is not all powerful, right? And if God did not want to prevent sin then He is evil, right?
THE BATTLE AXE: We Shall Behold Him (10/17/2013)—(4.) While Christian believers are commanded to speak about unseen things claiming victory and operating with confidence despite negative conditions and set backs that appear as reality, their optimism is not a matter of fantasy, folly or foolishness. Believers are cooperating with divine actions on their behalf, and doing all within their own power as necessary and positive action that will bring forth the fruit they desire, carry them to their goals, and resolve recurring problems. Believers are not idle, inactive, “lying to themselves” or to others. (5.) The battle is the Lord’s. To become truly mature and perfected created beings and living creatures all must grow and gain strength by overcoming emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual challenges and obstacles. For many it is unseen that what they endure is preparation for great blessing, or may be a work intended to make the glory of GOD visible to others, not to themselves. Nonetheless, all that believers endure is no more than what exists within the framework for human thought and feeling. See 1st Samuel 12: 16-24, 2nd Chronicles 20: 14-17, Psalms 119: 71 and 75, 1st Corinthians 10: 13, John 9: 1-3, King James Version.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (Galatians 3: 19-23, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why GOD Does Not Tell All (09/11/2013); GOD Bless America? (09/12/2013); How Could Angels Fall? (07/15/2013); Circumcision and Promise? (07/16/2013); GOD Grants License? On Testing GOD (06/20/2013); (06/21/2013); Origin of Baptism? (06/22/2013); According to the Eternal Purpose (11/20/2012); Henceforth, Of This Fruit (11/21/2012); A Partnership? (11/05/2012); To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012)
“^”, here are a few points to consider that agree with Bible teachings about angels, law, and sin:
(1.) Divine law is eternal as a personal expression of sacred being, and has always existed, however, not in the form of written codes, recorded judgments, legislation, ordinances and statutes.
(2.) Law is manifest as the details of process for immutable and unchanging divine operations as well as for divine intent, action in accordance with sovereign proclamation, and the fulfillment of sacred promise. Law is present within the living relationships of divinity through such aspects as continuity, focus, regularity, righteousness, truth, wisdom, and wrath against sin.
(3.) As demonstrated first through Adam and Eve, later through the Son of the Highest upon the earth, obedience to divine authority and sacred law does not require having foreknowledge of future events (e.g., consequences, damages, losses or punishments), full knowledge of divine mind, or using such elements as intellect, logic, reason and sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting). Obedience was to emerge by such features of relationship as intimacy, love, openness, respect, reverence, and trust.
(4.) GOD is a being whose make-up is entirely of spirit substance. Inseparable aspects of divinity include faith, holiness, joy, and perfection. Sin, that exists for created beings and living creatures, appears as an artifact or residue of non-being, and does not exist with influence and power for Divine Person. Sin has not been created by GOD, has no spirit content, and is only known to be present through created beings and living creatures that fail in right relationship with GOD. Sin is without dimensions, form, and spirit substance; however, sin has direction, effect and presence. Sin is not an aspect of life essence, yet, may dominate awareness and self-will in angels, men, and other finite beings.
There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) Sin opposes the continued existence of GOD, of divine law, and of all that has been created. Nonetheless, finite beings embrace sin as an aspect of their own full person, and do not immediately recognize sin as foreign, strange, from outside themselves, and contrary to their own nature. Finite self-will is not sufficient to detect, eliminate or even properly resist sin. Through the ministry of Jesus Christ, mankind now may be born again, and receive fresh endowments of divine substance and sinless will.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.
Grow in grace
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Today, the focus is on how to shake off destructive thoughts and negative feelings. Also, there is more about Sabbath. A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “dr. abeda” (Level 1 with 98 points, a member since September 4, 2011) posted the following:
Why is my GOD angry on me?
i dont know.but i feel like my God is angry on me. whatever i try do...i fail to do it. when there is a chance of luck, it becomes unlucky. i have lost all my hope...i am doomed. is there anything i can do to satisfy my GOD?
THE BATTLE AXE: About Sabbath (10/16/2013)—(5.) For Moses and those who left Egypt with him, Sabbath pertained to covenant, sanctification and being transformed to be a peculiar people of GOD. In addition to the weekly Sabbath and sabbaths of years, there were also sabbaths of holy convocation and observance spoken of as “high Sabbath” (i.e., where periods celebrating an annual feast would also include Sabbath). In the same way fasting is not the same as voluntarily missing or skipping a meal, observing Sabbath is more than simply lazing about the house, refusing to do manual labor, and taking the day off. See Exodus 31: 13, Isaiah 56: 3-5, Ezekiel 20: 11-13 and John 19: 31, King James Version. (6.) As a sacred event, the Sabbath continues the presence of GOD in the earth and in heaven. Many today think that the Sabbath is a time for family bonding, fund raising for various charities, good works, home life, personal recreation, or volunteer service. However, the people of GOD are not to look to mankind and society at large for their health, their highest hopes, their prosperity, their safety, or their sacred rest. The break from daily routine that mankind requires must do more than simply refresh the mind and physical body. Through operations of the Holy Spirit appearing as Scripture and as Sabbath, divine spirit content within the believer is enhanced and replenished. (See Exodus 19: 5, Deuteronomy 14: 2, Matthew 12: 11-12, Colossians 2: 16, Titus 2: 14 and 1st Peter 2: 9, KJV.)
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; spoil not his resting place: For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief. (Proverbs 24: 15-16, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Come As You Are? (06/29/2013); Freewill is Finite (06/30/2013); Feeling Loved By GOD? (06/16/2013); To Find A True Christian? (06/17/2013); Faith for Facing Tragedy? (06/04/2013); Words Spoken by GOD? (06/05/2013); Scripture at Funerals? (04/30/2013); Why Jesus Authored No Books (05/01/2013)
“dr. abeda”, here are a few points important to Christian belief that you should find useful:
(1.) The joy of the Lord is our strength only where we will acknowledge its presence, and allow it to fill our awareness. Bad feelings may be triggered by bad thoughts in the same way bad thoughts are triggered by bad feelings. To change and control our feelings we often must change and control the focus of our thoughts by changing our actions. This is true regarding anger, depression, fear, guilt, and shame. Instead of complaining, confrontations, moaning and groaning, fighting or self-destruction, Christian believers are to “get busy” with the things of fellowship, praise, service, study, and worship.
(2.) What we do as humans is always a matter of what we choose, even though there may be intense outside conditions that influence our inner choice. From my point of view, your situation is not as bad as you may think. However, what we see is determined mostly by where we turn and fix our gaze. The fact you took the time to pose a question here, expecting some kind of a response you might could use, says, you have not lost all hope; and you still have many ideas and options to explore.
There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood. (For example, (3.) GOD is angry with the wicked every day. Wrath against sin is a permanent aspect of Divine Person, for sin opposes the existence of sacred law, of the Law Giver, and of all Creation. Divine wrath is inseparable from other aspects of divinity such as love, faith, holiness, truthfulness and wisdom. There is balance within the Almighty that makes it possible for created beings and living creatures to continue to receive benefit and blessing despite the presence of sin among us. Knowing we ourselves are not deliberately pursuing sin to defy and deny our GOD, we embrace the assurances of our salvation through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Life continues having many challenges, obstacles, and suffering. Nonetheless, our focus can be upon the sure promises of GOD, and the present gifts among us that are an earnest of the Spirit (we say, first installment, down payment.) I trust this fragment will be useful. Even so, be it unto you according to your faith. The time of our Savior’s coming is nearer than before. Rejoice.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
A few points about Sabbath are featured, today. Also there is more on Balaam and prophecy. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Imelda Davis” (Level 4 with 2,579 points, a member since June 14, 2013) posted the following that was first asked at Yahoo Answers United Kingdom:
Are Christians under obligation to keep a weekly sabbath day?
THE BATTLE AXE: Balaam (10/15/2013)—(5.) In the same way Christian believers are encouraged to see transformation through the covenants with Israel of the sacred priesthood granted to Adam upon the earth for mankind, the divine use of prophets and prophecy (i.e., proclamation of divine purpose—not predicting the future) is also transformed. The initial model where men in flesh are used as if angel messengers portrays prophecy as a spiritual event wherein GOD says “repeat after me,” and the one sent must deliver only the exact utterance of GOD. Nothing is to be added, nor is anything to be left out. Through Israel as a nation in covenant, holy writings are established as a mechanism delivering prophecy beginning with sacred law and the tables of stone written by the finger of GOD. Oral traditions maintained among the twelve tribes of Jacob were then collected, and recorded. Documents were created to display that GOD is active and present in the earth: divine law, genealogy, anointed leaders, judgments against sin, miracles, and sacred promises appear. In addition to accurately preserving the wording of messages from GOD, an indwelling spirit from GOD is revealed as the source of contrition, acceptable praise, true prophetic demonstrations, and genuine prophetic utterance. (We say, the Breath of Life, the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, the Spirit of Prophecy is received.) Along with seeking the literal utterance and specific words spoken from GOD, believers are shown there also must be discernment (the use of spiritual things to recognize other spiritual things), for only the Spirit authenticates, corroborates and verifies divinity and prophecy. Through the Holy Spirit, operations of GOD among created beings and living creatures in the earth are correctly seen also in patterns of otherwise secular behavior, events and speeches. See Numbers 22: 31, Numbers 24: 10-19, 2nd Kings 6: 15-17, Psalms 119: 18, Isaiah 35: 3-10, Jeremiah 23: 31-33 and 1st Corinthians 12: 27-31, King James Version.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. (Isaiah 58: 13-14, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Church Mandatory? (05/06/2013); A GOD of Love? (05/07/2013); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013); The Obedience of Jesus? (04/15/2013); Newness of Spirit? (01/04/2013); Two Different Testaments? (01/05/2013); Signs of Messianic Belief? (12/16/2012); Vows and Covenants? (12/17/2012)
Imelda, here are a few points important to many 7th Day Sabbath believers who observe the day as an act of faith, not law or obligation:
(1.) “Sabbath” is not merely a period within the human framework of time. The Sabbath is an aspect of holy being and divine presence that is to be acknowledged as benefit and blessing.
(2.) The Sabbath was first revealed at Creation, and so is observed as a celebration and memorial of created beings and living creatures receiving new life.
(3.) Acknowledgement of GOD through Sabbath was put into effect before many aspects of divine law later instituted as a response to sin (that first became known among the holy angels); and so is regarded as the expression of faith, joy, love, and other inseparable features for the revealed person of GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood. (For example, (4.) Sabbath is also understood as divine rest, and a special opportunity for intimate contact with GOD. As such, it becomes a time of acknowledgement, praise, submission and worship. Like marriage and divorce, Sabbath is regarded as an emblem (we might say, badge) indicating divine authority. When Adam and Eve were driven from the Garden of Eden they continued having only two divine institutions, marriage and Sabbath.) I trust this fragment will be useful. Even so, be it unto you according to your faith. The time of our Savior’s coming is nearer than before. Rejoice.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Focus, today, is upon the figure of Balaam who appears in the Bible (Numbers, Chapter 22). Also, there is more on why believers seem to be those who “point their finger” at others. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Anthony20” (Level 2 with 658 points, a member since October 17, 2009) posted the following that was originally asked on Yahoo Answers Australia:
Christians: The story of Balaam - explain something to me.?
I'd actually never read the story but had heard something that I'd like you guys to confirm or deny for me.
Okay, so Balaam tried to curse the Israelites, God sent His angel to stop him, God succeeded as Balaam blessed the people rather than cursing them and later on, Balaam was "killed by the sword."
So my question is this: I'd heard that even after God told Balaam not to curse the Israelites, he did, which was why he was killed. Is this true? Or did Balaam NOT curse the Israelites at ALL after God told him not to?
THE BATTLE AXE: Without Pointing A Finger? (10/14/2013)—Often the discomfort and embarrassment listeners feel when someone preaches or testifies to them regarding Christian belief is not because the Holy Spirit is operating in the speaker. The Spirit is now operating within the listener. Where the listener acknowledges the action and presence of the divine agent within their own awareness and conscience, there is no angry accusation of finger pointing, insult, judging others, or slander. Among the special works performed by the Holy Spirit men must be made undeniably aware of their own errors, flaws, and shortcomings as created beings and living creatures who are fashioned to serve as companions to eternal deity. The sinfulness of sin must become visible. (We say, they must be convicted of sin.) Additionally, men must repent. They are moved to recognize the wrong they have done, break off any further error, display changes within their inner person, and acknowledge the atonement made on their behalf. (We say, they must return to GOD.) For these reasons, the message to mankind that believers in Jesus Christ openly proclaim to all must contain admonition, cautions, and warnings. The Gospel can not be delivered as abstract, academic, impersonal, speculative, or theoretical; and there absolutely must be depictions of the consequences for indecision, negligence, procrastinating, and further sin. It is the Holy Spirit that insures full truth will be shared showing balance, energy, kindness, and thoroughness. (We say, there must be conviction of divine love, righteousness and wisdom.) All believers accept the duty and obligation to share warnings with others who may be spiritually unprepared and unsuspecting. See 2nd Chronicles 19: 4-10, Isaiah 58: 1-14, and Ezekiel 3: 17-21 and 33: 9, 1st Thessalonians 5: 14 and John 8: 1-11, King James Version.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: For thy word’s sake, and according to thine own heart, hast thou done all these great things, to make thy servant know them. Wherefore thou art great, O LORD God: for there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears. And what one nation in the earth is like thy people, even like Israel, whom God went to redeem for a people to himself, and to make him a name, and to do for you great things and terrible, for thy land, before thy people, which thou redeemedst to thee from Egypt, from the nations and their gods? (2nd Samuel 7: 21-23, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Utterance is Spirit (09/08/2013); A Start for the Idea of GOD? (09/09/2013); Errors of King Solomon? (06/13/2013); Recognizing True Prophets (05/02/2013); Jesus, A Party Animal? (05/03/2013); The Adversary? (12/05/2012); “Soul Food” (12/06/2012)
“Anthony20”, here are a few points that many find useful for understanding the account of Balaam:
(1.) Balaam is a prophet or seer, and is presented as a contrast to Moses. Also, Balaam depicts the ancient priesthood that was handed down from Adam through Cain, and that had brought the seven tribes into covenant occupying the Promised Land before the sons of Jacob and those who left Egypt.
(2.) Balaam was used by GOD as a divinely sent spokesperson who did provide authentic and legitimate utterance from the Creator. However, the anointing upon Balaam is not abiding and continual as would later be established through the ministry of Jesus Christ through the falling of the Holy Ghost at Pentecost. (The sacred spirit content within Balaam comes and goes in spiritual episodes, so to speak.) Balaam therefore depicts the conflicts between flesh and spirit that typically undermine divine service.
(3.) For many, Balaam is a figure of Satan, and represents spiritual error that comes through covetousness, deception, pride, and subtlety (like the serpent in the Garden). Balaam did not discern and give warning against the operation of sin among the Moabites, or in his own attitude and response to GOD. When Balaam finally accepted that he could not speak a curse upon Israel, he encouraged a plan whereby the new covenant people would lose divine favor through fornication and the worship of idols.
There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood. (For example, (4.) The report that Balaam’s jackass spoke to warn the prophet of divine displeasure is neither a parable (a short narrative used to provide an object lesson), nor is the account a fable (a story to amuse and entertain that uses animals and objects as speakers). Readers are to understand that the authority and power of GOD extends over the many forms of flesh and spirit that exist within the full realm of Creation.) I trust this fragment will be useful. Even so, be it unto you according to your faith. Jesus is coming.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Why Christian believers often seem to “point the finger” at others; and more on those not formally taught to believe in GOD. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “SkyWalker 7 Thunder 7” (Level 3 with 1,615 points, a member since July 23, 2012) posted the following that was originally asked on Yahoo Answers Canada:
Do you share your belief without pointing fingers?
THE BATTLE AXE: Never Taught It? (10/13/2013)—One does not have to be taught in a formal setting through lectures, sermons, and speeches in order to have the desire for a right knowledge of GOD. Conscience first awakens many; and wanting to know and experience the truth of divine person should be an aspect of ones inner makeup that unfolds and develops through growth in the same way one acquires “mama” and “dada”. Many facets of life experience are involved including discovery, imitation, listening, play, repetition, risk taking, and trial and error. Exposure to the things from GOD for mankind carries one forward as the beginning of godly zeal to know and understand. Believers commonly answer using Scriptures from the Bible as part of the divine process to supply created beings and living creatures with revealed knowledge. Thereby, a person shares answers that are no longer a matter of personal opinion, private feelings, or subjective impressions. A developed, carefully recorded, tested over thousand of lives and years, and shown to be effective system of interrelated truths that emerge from the Spirit of GOD are to be shared with those having a responsive spirit. Such answers may be examined in a controlled manner. Those who genuinely desire right knowledge for the claims of GOD through Christ will read the Bible, and may choose for themselves how far and how fast their study may go. Changes in ones spirit content must occur and be made permanent through operations of GOD (we say, rebirth and growth directed by the divine nature one acquires in baptism).
THE GOLDEN ARROW: And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration because of advantage. But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. 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. (Jude 1: 14-23, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: To Find A True Christian? (06/17/2013); Unseen Sin? (06/18/2013); Teachings on Judgment (06/06/2013); Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013); When Does Gossip Become Sin? (01/08/2013); Understanding Hell (01/09/2013); Yet If I Judge (09/05/2012); Father Forgive (09/06/2012)
“SkyWalker 7 Thunder 7”, here are a few points many fail to catch about Christian belief; perhaps they will help you as you seek to place the correct value on the ministry of Jesus Christ in the earth and from the heaven:
(1) One of the greatest blessings from the doctrine and teachings of Christ is that otherwise hidden and invisible sin is revealed. Sin is no carnal, material, or physical thing having feelings, intelligence or life. Sin is not created by GOD, and does not contain divine spirit. Yet sin may dominate awareness and self-will of created beings and living creatures. Sin cannot be described as having dimension or substance, yet has direction, effect and presence. Despite ones education, intellect, logic or reason, sin may rule and ruin in ones experience.
(2) By the sacred operations of GOD in baptism through Jesus, one is “born again” from divine DNA, so to speak. In place of the animal and human nature, the divine nature is re-established within. The will of GOD who is spirit substance can not be controlled or limited by sin. Inseparable and permanent aspects of divine person are received that include faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Believers are granted fresh endowments of the Spirit from GOD that imparts divinity and life to mortal beings.
There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood. (For example, (3) Sin does not employ logic, reason and science; and because sin is no-thing that has independent existence, mankind cannot resist, correctly know, or eliminate sin apart from GOD. Sin appears as an acceptable aspect of ones own being not as something from outside oneself that is contrary to their nature, foreign or strange. Thus, along with sacred law, promises, and prophecy, every believer is an instrument in the hand of GOD used to further clarify the exceeding sinfulness of sin.) I trust this fragment will be useful. Even so, be it unto you according to your faith. Jesus is coming.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
Whether belief in GOD depends upon being taught the Bible is in view, today, along with more showing the conditions for following Christ do not break the 5th Commandment of the Decalogue. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Regina” (Level 1 with 85 points, a member since October 11, 2013) posted the following that was originally asked at Yahoo Answers Australia:
Would you believe in god if you were never taught it?
I think it's funny how religious people use passages from the bible to prove their point when the people they are trying to prove it to don't believe the bible holds any power above them. I am a spiritual person. I feel as through there is a higher energy but i don't think that energy made rules for us to follow and put them in a book. I was not taught to believe in god but the people around me that think the earth was created in 7 days claim that they are the ones that are sane in this world. I don't care what people believe in but i find it sad that you were taught that believing in god will bring you to heaven and that you will hurt others in the name of god. How about we all get along and just be good people and respect each other. People should think through their own minds not through someone else's, it's the only way we will improve
THE BATTLE AXE: Commandments in the Light of Christ? (10/12/2013)—While the word “hate” does appear in the King James English translation of Luke 14: 26, most Christian believers take its meaning to be “rate others (including those in intimate family relationships) as less effective, less relevant, and lower in value for ones redemption and salvation than is Christ.” Of course, the Scriptures are speaking about (and to) families where all are in covenant with GOD and Christ, take up their assigned duties, and care for and respect one another. Believers are not to be hostile to, deny love to, despise, dislike intensely, or direct anger, death and destruction against others in any of their life relationships. Thus, co-workers, counselors, employees, service persons, all with whom we have contact are looked upon as those for whom Christ has suffered and died. Just as believers are to share the Ten Commandments as an aspect of their being alive, all are to share the Gospel in word and deeds, even understanding that the loathsome person we see at this moment may be utterly changed when next we see them. For by that time they may have had their own encounter with the Lord, and conversion by receiving him in faith. We are not to presume that any is “lost” in the sense of having absolutely no opportunity and possibility to receive from GOD, or totally out of divine reach and sealed within their own sinful nature except after making their own spiritual choices. Even so, we are not to permit any to hinder our work of correctly preparing ourselves through fellowship with other believers, sacrificial giving, forgiveness, gratitude, praise, prayer, regular study of the Scriptures, and unselfish service. All believers are called to the work of spreading the Gospel.
THE GOLDEN ARROW: Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God. (Psalms 78: 1-8, KJV)
THE DOUBLE DAGGER: According to This Word (09/20/2013); His Burden Is Light? (09/21/2013); The Limit to Believing? (09/16/2013); All Things Possible? (09/17/2013); A Relationship not Just Knowledge? (06/25/2013); Lost Without GOD? (06/26/2013); Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013); If You Are Sent… ? (06/08/2013); Foolish For Not Believing? (03/22/2013); Science and the Laws of Nature? (03/23/2013); A Text for Lives Today (11/25/2012); Pornography from the Bible? (11/26/2012); A Golden Ticket? (11/30/2012); And This Was Good News (12/01/2012)
“Regina”, here are a few points for those unfamiliar with Christian belief:
(1.) As we trust that GOD is the origin for all that exists, we also trust that a right knowledge of GOD must come through actions, events, operations, and process that display a divine nature as well as content having sacred substance. GOD himself must display himself and show himself (we say, reveal himself) in ways that he remains invisible, yet may be “discovered,” intimately known, and correctly understood. The Bible is a tool of GOD to convey substance that exists within his own being, and so becomes a great evidence of GOD as well as a device whereby GOD is experienced and internalized.
(2.) GOD is a spirit who is made up of only divine substance, yet, has put forth created beings and living creatures that exist in a material sphere. Included in the makeup of GOD are inseparable aspects such as faith, gratitude, holiness, joy, love, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. There are multiple levels of difference among and between animals, angels, insects, mankind, and the sacred beasts that exist in the celestial presence (we say, heaven). Just as humans are able to overcome many of the barriers with animals (we domesticate and train them as pets), GOD is able to overcome many barriers and be in communion with persons whose inward nature (i.e., their spirit that generates feeling and thought) is attuned to that of GOD.
There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood. (For example, (3.) The Bible is a starting point for all followers of Christ. What believers are “taught” only prepares them to learn more, and participate in a very different experience of life that comes from GOD. Believers must embrace change that is so detailed and sweeping we say, one must be born again from divine DNA, the operation of GOD called baptism. A person must experience change that does not come merely by intellect, knowledge, logic and reason. The believer accepts a relationship with GOD that is made present in power through contact with the Spirit of GOD in practices, praise, prayer, and reading the holy writings.) I trust this fragment will be useful. Even so, be it unto you according to your faith. Jesus is coming.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC
