(12/12/2018) Sacred Characters, Not Fictional

The image depicts the promise to Abraham of an heir from GOD who would be a required lamb of sacrifice.

Today, the reply is on Abraham and Moses as sacred figures, rather than make-believe or fictional characters. The belief system provided to all Christians is intended to make visible the diverse actualities, opportunities, possibilities, and streams of sacred (rather than secular) truth that continue a permanent connection for our own existence and lives to that of divinity. In the same way, Israel was called out from a one-world empire, Egypt, to exist as the lawful heir and son of divinity, Christian believers are commanded to separate from this present world that is a man-made system for exchange, interaction, and survival to exist as divine offspring and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ. Consider again the spiritual application and meaning for Revelation 18: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. 2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. 3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. 4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. 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:

Are Moses and Abraham real or fictional characters?

Even secular Jews say they are mythological characters and Jews were never held as slaves in Egypt

Only religious Jews and Christians say they are real

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not: thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting. (Isaiah 63: 16, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Word From GOD (12/11/2018); Lost For 40 Years? (09/17/2018); The First “Chosen” People (05/03/2018); Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); The Goodness of Pharaoh? (02/19/2018); The Generation That Wandered (06/14/2017); Kingdom and One-world Empire (09/08/2016); Slaves to Sin? (04/13/2015); Adam, Pharaoh and All Mankind? (01/28/2015)

“Anonymous”, fictional characters are fashioned and intended for amusement, diversion, entertainment, and recreation. Christian belief shares a simple, yet, richly detailed and profound revelation of (1) the character, makeup, process, and substance of divine fullness (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit); (2) the origins of existence, duration, order, purpose, sacred law, and suffering; and (3) meanings, principles, and values that continue human survival and the accomplishment of authentic humanity despite the condition of mortality, and the operations of sin. In addition to the origin of mankind, eternal purpose and operations of GOD are described highlighting divine dominion that appears through family, government, inheritance, judgment, covenant relationship, redemption, and salvation.

For Christians, Egypt is a symbol of idolatry, lawlessness, occult practices (i.e. sorcery; witchcraft), and spiritual confusion. Egypt became a one-world empire during the period of famine when the nation’s land, livestock, and entire population (except for the Hebrews) became chattel (private property) and slaves to the household of the Pharaoh. Even so, the Hebrews sought to assimilate, blend in, and coexist among the Egyptians. The Egyptians continually displayed bias, ethnic arrogance, and prejudice against the sons of Jacob; and the Hebrews were despised for amassing and gathering livestock (being herders), rather than be merely handlers and users of a few beasts. Later, reproduction among the Hebrews threatened imbalance within the population; and the tribes of Jacob would come under persecution as a threat to the survival of the Egyptian people. GOD would demand release for the descendants of Abraham (the offspring of Jacob) from all financial, political and other obligations to Egypt; and would set them apart (we also say, consecrate; purify; sanctify) the tribes of Jacob through exodus and separation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Genesis 47: 19-21 King James Version (KJV): 19 Wherefore shall we die before thine eyes, both we and our land? buy us and our land for bread, and we and our land will be servants unto Pharaoh: and give us seed, that we may live, and not die, that the land be not desolate. 20 And Joseph bought all the land of Egypt for Pharaoh; for the Egyptians sold every man his field, because the famine prevailed over them: so the land became Pharaoh’s. 21 And as for the people, he removed them to cities from one end of the borders of Egypt even to the other end thereof.

2. Exodus 4: 22-23, KJV: 22 And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn: 23 And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.

3. Galatians 3: 6-9, KJV: 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. 8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. 9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

4. Galatians 3: 26-29, KJV: 26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. John 8: 31-40, KJV: 31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 33 They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? 34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. 35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. 37 I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you. 38 I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father. 39 They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham. 40 But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/11/2018) The Word From GOD

Today, reply is on prophecy, revelation, and the provision of holy writings from GOD. Mature Christian believers are to acknowledge the Bible as providing an appearance of divine person that conveys sacred thought, utterance (we say, breath; life essence; spirit; word), and the sovereign will of divinity. While the substance of GOD is spirit that may operate through space and time as formless and unbounded, the active presence is reliably apprehended through specific discernible elements that include personhood, eternal purpose, oneness without sameness, sacred operations (e.g., deliverance; forgiveness; judgment; praise; prayer; covenant relationship; resurrection of the dead), and the emanation of spirit substance that is unchanging (e.g., holiness, joy, longsuffering, meekness, wrath against sin). The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Pat C.” (Level 7 with 50,660 points, a member since December 10, 2011) posted the following:

How can a book written by several different men be the word of god?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off. (Isaiah 55: 7-13, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: By Reading The Bible? (11/18/2018); The Divinity of “Word” (01/26/2018); There Must Be Rebirth (01/21/2018); The Word of GOD (09/05/2017); Actual Utterance From GOD? (08/11/2017); GOD Appearing As Word (01/14/2016); By Faith, Not By Interpretation? (12/31/2015)

“Pat C.”, the Bible documents appearances of GOD on the earth using thousands of events (e.g., prophetic demonstrations, healing, miracles, prayer, visions, visitations), within thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years. When sinners choose to seek clear knowledge and understanding of GOD as the origin for all existence, life, maturity, and perfection, they are encouraged to receive focused experiences of discovery, gradual growth, and multiple streams of truth that identify the Creator as having intelligence, personhood, and innumerable possibilities for continuing relationship with created beings and living creatures. Consciousness and self-will (we also say, willpower) in the living must undergo a profound change that can only be initiated and completed by the operations of GOD. We say, the sinner must be “born again,” must “grow up again,” and there must be a renewing of their mind whereby they become able to discern (i.e., recognize and respond to) active presence and eternal purpose that authenticate divine spirit. Divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the summation of inseparable divine substance) must be apprehended as spirit, who is ineffable, immortal, immutable, incorruptible, and invisible. Just as the living may be influenced through the operations of sin that has no ordinary material or physical form, yet, has direction, effect, and presence that may dominate consciousness and self-will in created beings and living creatures, divinity may engage, in-fill, and impart spirit content to the living from the makeup of GOD. Included are faith, holiness, hope, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, wrath against sin, and zeal. As the substance of GOD, spirit is diffuse and can not be “contained” or restricted by finite human will to exist within the frameworks of time and space. Even so, there are sacred operations that establish the necessary continuity for mankind to exist as a companion to GOD despite man being mortal and subject to death (e.g., dynasty, inheritance, longevity, priesthood, prophecy, rebirth, resurrection from the dead). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 2^nd Peter 1: 15-21, King James Version (KJV): 15 Moreover I will endeavour that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance. 16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

2. Revelation 19: 9-13, KJV: 9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God. 10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. 11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. 12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Revelation 21: 1-5, KJV: 1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. 2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/10/2018) How GOD Speaks Today

Today, reply is on the mechanisms for communication within the community of faith that is the church, the spiritual body of Christ. In the same way divinity has appeared embodied as divine law, and using flesh displayed as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation), divinity continues ministering on the earth within the members of the church through a fresh endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word). The imparted Spirit establishes the character, presence, and substance of GOD (we say, the image of GOD; the divine nature) within the followers of Christ that include faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. All sacred communication is apprehended and transmitted through operations of spirit (e.g., confession, praise, prayer, prophecy, repentance, revelation, supplication, thanksgiving). Christ as head of the body will direct and focus consciousness and self-will (willpower) within all who become joined to GOD through himself. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

How does God speak to us today?

THE GOLLDEN ARROW: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, 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: 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. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. 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. (2^nd Peter 1: 2-8, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: How GOD Is Communicating (10/31/2018); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); GOD Appearing As Christ (12/03/2017); In Order To Understand (12/01/2017); Wisdom In A Mystery (11/22/2017); The Device of Incarnation (10/18/2017); Jesus Known As Word (01/17/2016)

“Anonymous”, GOD communicates through praise and prayer that are operations of both flesh and spirit. The revelation from divinity is ongoing, and employs multiple devices including baptism (death, burial, and rebirth of ones inborn spirit), covenant relationships, doctrine, enduring hardship, liturgy, parables, promises, prophecy, and unselfish service. Sinners who become developing Christian believers are encouraged to consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Hebrews 1: 1-4, King James Version (KJV): 1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: 4 Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.

2. Ephesians 4: 9-15, KJV: 9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:

3. 1^st Corinthians 2: 7-14, KJV: 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Revelation 2: 10-11, KJV: 10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. 11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/09/2018) Hezekiah Called For Judgment

Today, reply is on the character and content of prayer requesting life when one is approaching the time of their own death. To pray for the health of ones own body, mind, and spirit becomes selfish by having its origin in exaggerated desires for pleasure, idolatry, excessive pride, and lawlessness. Many of us have had to pray to GOD for strength to endure congenital sickness in our offspring, the incurable illness of a parent or spouse, and a diagnosis foretelling our own death. It is not an offense to GOD that men affirm the divine purpose and putting forth of life; however, throughout our being in relationship with GOD by the death of his son Jesus Christ, there must be correct recognition that obedience to sacred law is not sufficient either to justify or provide all our needs from GOD; that there must be willing submission to the sentence of divine law that rebukes and warns against sin; and there must be the firm, unshakable acknowledgment of resurrection, final judgment, and the second death. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “MeMe MeMe tikle” (Level 7 with 50,810 points, a member since July 31, 2012) posted the following:

Is it wrong to pray for God to extend someone's life like Hezekiah did?

Update: God knows what is best for us and we must accept His will concerning the length of our lives?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. (James 5: 13-18, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Believers Must Receive Gifts (09/30/2018); Christian Beliefs Are Forward-looking (09/23/2018); Doctrine, Dropsy, and Sin (09/07/2018); Sacred Operations By GOD (04/12/2018); Conditions Set By Covenant? (09/13/2017); Holy Writings and Spirit? (12/16/2016); The Forms of Prophecy? (04/26/2016); About The End Of The World (08/30/2015)

“MeMe MeMe tikle” among mature Christian believers, prayer may communicate and give expression to the divine spirit within a collective body (e.g., a congregation; a family; a nation), or provide intimate expression from a single individual. Only divinity may lawfully assess or assign (judge) the content, meaning, and value of praise and prayer, for those appeals, expressions, and petitions must be directed exclusively to GOD. Hezekiah did not fast, pray for, and receive the blessing poured forth at Pentecost. Hezekiah acted in response to a fresh prophetic exhortation, Get your house in order; yet, the sentence that mankind should be mortal already had been spoken and was in effect against the living on earth since the time of Adam. Acknowledging the prayer of Solomon in the dedication of the first Temple, Hezekiah turned to pray toward Jerusalem and the Temple wall. Hezekiah did not appear before GOD “empty-handed” having no offering of (1) acknowledgment of the Spirit of Prophecy (we also say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Holy Spirit; the Spirit of Truth); (2) acknowledgment that Isaiah was a true prophet and spokesperson sent from GOD; (3) fervor (some would say, passion; tears; heartfelt truth); and (4) works of obedience to sacred law. Even so, Hezekiah acted in ignorance not understanding the distinction that healing is not the same as a sacred event (we say, miracle); and the dying king required a sign that would authenticate the integrity of the prophet’s words. Hezekiah’s prayer was heard and answered, however, the divine response should be seen as more than duration, longsuffering, more time, and one man’s survival. Hezekiah could obtain compassion from those of the kingdom, favor, and respect as GOD’s anointed without entering into final judgment; however, it is in sacred judgment that mercy toward those who are guilty and lacking appears most clearly as divine prerogative, eternal purpose, righteousness, and the sovereign will of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 2^nd Kings 20: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. 2 Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying, 3 I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.

2. 2^nd Kings 20: 8-11, KJV: 8 And Hezekiah said unto Isaiah, What shall be the sign that the LORD will heal me, and that I shall go up into the house of the LORD the third day? 9 And Isaiah said, This sign shalt thou have of the LORD, that the LORD will do the thing that he hath spoken: shall the shadow go forward ten degrees, or go back ten degrees? 10 And Hezekiah answered, It is a light thing for the shadow to go down ten degrees: nay, but let the shadow return backward ten degrees. 11 And Isaiah the prophet cried unto the LORD: and he brought the shadow ten degrees backward, by which it had gone down in the dial of Ahaz.

3. Romans 8: 22-27, KJV: 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. 24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 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.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/07/2018) The Increase of Christ?

Today, reply is on the accomplishments of John the Baptist appearing as the herald and servant to Christ being surpassed by those of Jesus appearing as Christ, Savior, and Son of the Highest. The birth of both Jesus and John were sacred events (we say, miracles) in fulfillment of prophecy, and both served in the permanent change of divine ministry to mankind and to the earth. Both would be living models of authentic humanity. John would signal an end for the work of Levitical priesthood; and Jesus would become throughly fitted and prepared to serve as a divine High Priest. John advanced the transformation of mankind to exist on the earth as a companion to divinity through forgiveness, rebirth, and repentance. Jesus advanced the transformation of mankind to exist on the earth as an immortal, incorruptible companion to divinity through atonement, resurrection, and final judgment. John would be privileged to see and hear Jesus acknowledged by the Father and the Holy Spirit. However, while imprisoned by Herod, John would become uncertain, and his faith be in crisis. John did receive the report from his disciples on the works of Jesus, yet, he died in prison executed like a thief or a murderer. John would not be resurrected as was Lazarus. Only relying on faith would John ever see Jesus ministering miracles among the people, and not with his own two eyes. When the transformation of mankind is completed at the coming of Jesus to harvest the earth, even the least in the kingdom of heaven will exist having unshakable faith. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

What did Jesus Christ mean by he must increase, but I must decrease?

John 3:30

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me. And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. (Matthew 11: 2-11, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: John Anointed To Prophesy (05/21/2018); The Lamb of GOD (08/19/2015); Jesus Given A Divine Ministry? (08/18/2015); Jesus and the Pharisees (07/14/2013); How Could Angels Fall? (07/15/2013); He Must Increase? (04/01/2015); Both Born Holy? (04/29/2013); Scripture at Funerals? (04/30/2013)

“Anonymous”, here are some points developing Christian believers are being challenged to consider; the ministry of John exhorting repentance and proclaiming the soon coming of the kingdom of GOD would become overshadowed by Jesus Christ being visible as the active presence, and providing as the new creation his church grounded in spirit and truth, not ceremony, rites, and rituals:

1. Following more than 400 years without the office of prophet from GOD appearing in Israel, John the Baptist would arrive as a herald announcing and proclaiming the advent (coming) of the Christ. As the son of Zacharias, John would be reared to serve in sacred office as a priest—one anointed to offer sacrifices of blood on a consecrated altar that serves as the point of contact between earth and heaven. Prompted by the Holy Spirit, John would leave the Temple in Jerusalem to serve in the wilderness as a prophet after the example of Moses—one who ministers as a spokesperson from divinity to mankind, and from mankind to divinity.

2. The appointment of John began through the prophetic demonstration of miraculous birth to elderly parents. While still developing within his mother’s womb, John became filled with the Holy Spirit when his mother was visited by her cousin Mary, who later would give birth to Jesus. Zacharias, was a Levite whose sacred inheritance included ministry and worship within the Temple at Jerusalem, and performing in scheduled courses (we say, organized rotations; shifts). Elizabeth also was from a priestly family, however, she had been barren (could not bear children), and was thought too old for childbearing.

3. The priesthood that was begun as a gift from heaven given to Adam, and would be increased through the covenant of Moses, existed as an instrument used by GOD to continue the making of atonement, fulfilling eternal purpose, maintaining covenant relationship, and proclaiming divine law expressing the sovereign will of divinity.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Both the office of priest and that of prophet would be transformed by the embodiment of divinity as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation). Contrary to “the law and the prophets,” custom, practice, and tradition had narrowed focus within the Temple community to obedience, offerings, and sacrifice—the law without the prophets. A more complete and correct revelation of divine fullness would be provided displaying operations by the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth). ) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/06/2018) The Existence of "Goodness"?

Today, points are shared on “goodness” as an aspect of life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup and substance that are divine fullness. Mankind may contain and display divine spirit essence, yet, can not create or impart what exists as holy, ineffable, and invisible. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Pat C.” (Level 7 with 50,370 points, a member since December 10, 2011) posted the following:

Why do you need a god to be good?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God. (3^rd John 1: 11, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Watching The Science Channel? (10/17/2018); Bible Definitions Of Sin (10/01/2018); Only GOD Is Good? (05/03/2017); Abstractions, Atheism and I.Q. (08/18/2016); Divine Knowledge of Human Hurt? (03/02/2015); Was David a “Good” Man? (01/13/2015); Being Good, Enough? (01/06/2015); Evil Is Not Sin And Wickedness? (12/09/2014); Divine Goodness? (12/10/2014)

“Pat C.”, here are some points that may not have been shared with you until now. In line with the understanding that divinity is the fullness or sum of all divine substance (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, righteousness, wisdom, wrath against sin), mature Christian believers turn away from the discussion of “goodness” and “the Good” provided through Plato and the many Greek thinkers who deal with “goodness” as an abstraction, a property, or a product of social interaction. The inseparable aspects of divine makeup include immortality, immutability, incorruptibility, oneness without sameness, personhood, purpose, and sovereign will. GOD is acknowledged as the origin of all that exists, and of all that has life. Just as divinity has determined the duration and substance of all things as an expression of divine prerogative, divinity also completes an assignment of meaning, value and worth to all (we say, there is divine judgment distinct from ongoing sacred process to resolve conflicts and settle disputes through the application of divine law). The operations of sin that oppose the continued existence of sacred law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the universe, have not been put forth as a spirit or substance created by GOD. Thus, sin does not have the completeness, integrity and soundness that describes material objects that exist; yet, sin has direction, effect, and presence. Sin may dominate consciousness and self-will within created beings and living creatures. Artifacts associated with sin include disobedience, iniquity, perverseness, rebellion, spiritual confusion, and wickedness. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Psalms 49: 6-8, King James Version (KJV): 6 They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; 7 None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him: 8 (For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:) 9 That he should still live for ever, and not see corruption.

2. Job 26: 2-4, KJV: 2 How hast thou helped him that is without power? how savest thou the arm that hath no strength? 3 How hast thou counselled him that hath no wisdom? and how hast thou plentifully declared the thing as it is? 4 To whom hast thou uttered words? and whose spirit came from thee?

3. Matthew 19: 16-22, KJV: 16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? 17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. 18 He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, 19 Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? 21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. 22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 1^st John 3: 9-11, KJV: 9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/05/2018) Awe Through Sacred Revelation

Today, reply is on replacing the fear of death and fear of the unknown with awe, reverence, and a meaningful relationship with GOD. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appears) posted the following:

I’m scared to die…?

I know death is inevitable. I’m an atheist but I want to believe there’s some kind of afterlife but I can’t imagine one and it’s not like I’d ever be into any kind of religion because I’m bisexual.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him. (Luke 12: 4-5, King James Version, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); Fear, Revelation and Desire (05/22/2017); No Fear In Love? (05/17/2017); Spirit Process not Feelings? (09/21/2016); Fear That Acknowledges GOD? (07/15/2016); Correct Awe and Respect (02/04/2016); Awe? (08/09/2015)

“Anonymous”, we are not to fear the fact that we are mortal, and will complete our mortality. Fear of death is often confused with fear of pain, and fear of judgment for sins. Among Christian believers, becoming free from the fear of death and judgment are accomplished by filling ones awareness, and focusing ones self-will (willpower) to continue in the relationship of a life companion to GOD who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible. As expressions of the flesh, emotion and fear are generated through mechanical and natural operations (e.g., circulation, sensation, stress) while awe and reverence are features that appear through actions of spirit. Fear of the unknown is best dispelled through sacred knowledge and revealed truth that have life-nourishing power and substance. The mind is not to be fed with conjecture, imagination, unanswered questions, and speculation. Rather, there must be a reconfiguration of ones mind whereby behavior and conduct are generated through exchanges and interactions of ones own spirit substance. Inseparable aspects of the divine life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) will be imparted from the makeup of GOD as Creator. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Knowledge and practice then can exist and unfold as balanced, complete, interwoven, and systematic; yet, organic, personal, and responsive. Consider the following assurances, promises, and prophesies of eternal life from the Bible that serve as the specific expectations (hope) of believers:

1. Psalms 23: 4-6, King James Version (KJV): 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

2. Ephesians 4: 21-24, KJV: 21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

3. Hebrews 2: 14-18, KJV: 14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; 15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. 17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. 18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Romans 8: 13-17, KJV: 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC