(09/03/2019) Entered Into Divine Glory

A depiction of Christ in glory

 

Today, reply is on the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the divine process and tool whereby mankind is to receive existence, life, and substance as the new creation. Presently, there are those in the public forum who have posed questions on the resurrection of the living (dead in trespasses and sins), rather than the raising of the dead who have completed their mortality. Properly understood, mankind’s consciousness of resurrection has its origin within the mind of GOD; pertains to the atonement for sin provided through the Incarnation of divinity as Jesus Christ; speaks to the glorification of mankind; and is in accord with divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. It is written: Romans 8: 26-30, King James Version (KJV): 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. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “norine” (Level 1 with 3 points, a member since July 12, 2019) posted the following:

 

Does I Corinthians Chapter 15 apply to our “DEAD spirits” (I Cor 15:21-22) being resurrected as well as our physical death’s resurrection?

Update: WHY DID THE RELIGION OF CHRISTIANITY NOT TEACH MANKIND

THEY ARE “DEAD SPIRITS” WHO MUST BE “QUICKENED BACK TO LIFE” ALTHOUGH EPHESIANS 2:1 SAYS “AND YE HATH HE >>>QUICKENED<<< WHO ((( WERE ))) DEAD IN YOUR TRESPASSES AND SINS?”

DIDN’T ANYONE EVER WONDER HOW AND WHY ARE WE “QUICKENED?”

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels. (Luke 9: 26, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Life Because of Righteousness (08/29/2019); We Must Acknowledge Christ (08/08/2019); Two Uses For Resurrection (05/01/2019; The Name “Resurrection Sunday” (04/23/2019); Become As Little Children (12/13/2018); Becoming Joined To GOD (10/13/2017); The Purpose of Resurrection (07/05/2016)

 

21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. (1^st Corinthians 15: 21-22, King James Version, KJV)

“norine”, the concept of “resurrection” does not come to us as a man-made device, a product of human imagination, language skills, and wordplay. As a tool being used by divinity, “resurrection” speaks to multiple sacred actions and conditions that exist for created beings and living creatures as aspects of ongoing relationship with the Creator. In the same way “birth” is understood as a layered process wherein existence and life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from GOD becomes manifest and visible on the earth, developing and mature Christians are to acknowledge that resurrection also is the imparting of existence and life essence to mankind through the sacred process whereby the Incarnate Christ was restored to the fullness of divinity following his death on the cross. The followers of Jesus Christ are being entered into more than simply life, death, and conditions of the flesh: we are being entered into divine glory and the new creation. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. John 17: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: 2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. 3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. 4 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. 5 And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. 6 I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

2. Romans 6: 3-6, 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. John 17: 22-24, KJV: 22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. 24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 7:34 AM, September 03, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/600×315/cd/02/93/cd0293e07d71b19530b6df16df579956.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(07/04/2013) The Return in Glory?

Whether Christ will appear in flesh at the Advent or Second Coming is topic, today, with more on divine forgiveness and judgment.  In remembrance of America’s birthday, I again recommend the music ministry of Deitrick Haddon & Voices of Unity; readers should hear the MP3, One Nation available with the August 1999 album Chain Breaker.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “harmonia” (Level 1 with 29 points, since June 17, 2013) has posted the following:

Do you think Jesus will return in spirit or flesh?

THE BATTLE AXE:  Theoretical Forgiveness? (07/03/2013)—It may appear that divine judgment and forgiveness casually dismiss cruel and hateful sins as if they never happened.  However, many subtle (i.e., barely visible) differences must be weighed in divine judgment that go beyond the specifics of ones behavior and conduct.  Judgment to establish eternal being and permanence must occur within multiple aspects of unseen truth.  In addition to the social, there is the emotional, the psychological, and the spiritual.  Such carnal and material features as whether ones actions immediately resulted in another’s death; the number of fatalities; the age, gender and soundness of ones victims; how recently ones offenses have been committed are all secondary to their agreement and fulfillment of divine proclamation, promise and prophecy.  Life process is examined to identify the outworking of divine endowments, the continual acknowledgment of sacred presence, and the accomplishment of eternal purpose.  See Job 8:  11-15, Romans 11:  33-36 and Revelation 15:  2-4, KJV.

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.  Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.  And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.  But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.  Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.  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:  5-17, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  When Jesus Comes Back (04/19/2013); What’s The Way Out? (04/20/2013); Suddenly Absent, Suddenly Present (03/31/2013); A Family Affair? (04/01/2013); Before Abraham Was… (03/14/2013); Titles and Respect (03/15/2013); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); Jesus, King of Earth? (10/07/2012); A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); Aliens? (09/24/2012)

“harmonia”, here are some points important for those who acknowledge Jesus Christ as their redeemer and savior:

(1)  The operations of GOD to fulfill divine promise and prophecy are also intended to alter mankind, to end mortality, and to preserve eternal divinity.  The make-up and substance of GOD is such spirit matter as faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Even so, GOD has ability, authority and power to generate carnal, material and physical being.

(2)  GOD is revealed to Creation as Godhead through multiple sacred operations that express exalted being, purpose, sanctity, and sovereign will.  Included are Creation, the present ongoing judgment, and the appearance of GOD in human flesh as Jesus Christ (we say, Incarnation). 

(3)  Almighty GOD is unchanging, and employs differences, diversity and variety as tools that establish meaning and value for created beings and living creatures, who must rely upon patterns that continually shift within fixed frameworks of time and space.  The ministry of Jesus Christ to establish eternal life is accomplished by a permanent joining of flesh and spirit.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example,  (4)  The return of Jesus will be in glory and in power.  In addition to proclaiming promises and prophecies from GOD to encourage hope upon the earth, Jesus suffered the cross to demonstrate that death and resurrection will allow a transformation whereby mankind may become immortal and incorruptible.)   Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/13/2013) Must We Really Die?

Whether or not death is inevitable and unavoidable is the topic, today. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Stephen” (Level 1 with 132 points, a member since April 20, 2013) posted the following:

Do we really have to die?

Do you ever think about death? Do you ever fear falling asleep that you won’t wake up? Why? Why do we go about worrying about our short 80-some years of life? Why if we were only meant for some 80 years would we think of living forever? Why is there so much to do but so little time? Why is eternity on our hearts? Could it be that there is something else beyond death? If so how do we know how we can get eternal life? Why is our conscience always telling us right from wrong? How does it know? How does it know lying, stealing, torture of others, unequal rights, hitting people,etc. Is wrong? Could it possibly be getting it’s info from somewhere like a Devine being? I know I disobeyed this law embeded inside of me so eternal life probobly isn’t an option. Who will save me? What Devine being can save me from not making it into eternal life? Was there already one that came? Tell me!

THE GOLDEN ARROW: All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (1st Corinthians 15: 39-49, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Death Has Been Transformed (05/09/2013); Loving the Enemy? (05/10/2013); What’s The Way Out? (04/20/2013); Kindness to Mary? (04/21/2013); Suddenly Absent, Suddenly Present? (03/31/2013); A Family Affair? (04/01/2013)

Yes, Stephen, in the same way we have to get wet when splashed by water. Here are some points you might find helpful that agree with Christian belief, and are in line with doctrines and teachings contained within the Bible:

(1.) Mortality as a material and physical condition in the natural world for the continued being of humankind is completed and finished only through the second death (called, being cast into the lake of fire), translation (called walking with GOD, and being lifted up) or transformation described as change that takes place during the divine harvesting of the earth (called the putting on of immortality and incorruption).

(2.) The fact of death does not have to be emotionally and psychologically overwhelming. Christians trust that they are receiving divine comfort, edification (i.e., being built up, strengthened) as well as preparation by and for bereavement through the death of their loved ones now along with multiple sacred promises and proclamations (we say prophecy) that reveal divine intent.

(3.) The possibility of eternal life is established as an aspect of divine revelation whereby GOD makes divinity known, visible, and understandable to created beings and living creatures. Existence within the universe of GOD is shown to embrace more than simply life and death. (Many things exist that do not have life.) Many dimensions of being must come into view including capacity for affiliation, consciousness, duration, and purpose.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Restoration of life to those once dead occurs as revival (raising the dead, reanimation) and resurrection. The holy writings describe resurrection as a device to further establish the righteousness of divine judgment. See again 1st Corinthians 15: 50-57 and 1st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, KJV.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/01/2013) A Family Affair?

      The divine meaning and use of family is the topic, today, along with more on resurrection of the body. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “A British Atheist” (Level 5 with 7,479 points, a member since April 26, 2012) posted the following:

Christians, why are you not protecting these family values?

We hear of so many Christians claiming “Marriage is a god given union for man and woman”. Yet for some reason you seem to miss out a few other family values that God has given.

Let’s take a look at them:

Deu 21:10-13 States men are allowed to take beautiful women from war and marry them.

Deu:15-17 Describes how to handle more than one wife in a marriage.

Deu 25: States a wife must marry her husband’s brother in law if her husband dies.

Now so many of you are going to claim that these are the rules of the old testament. However Jesus clearly states they still apply in Mathew 5:17

So Christians, why do you continue to cherry pick your family values? Also, why are you not defending these family values?

Additional Details

@mopar Mike: I am not condoning anything. I just do not know why Christians are not defending these God given values?

THE BATTLE AXE: Suddenly Absent, Suddenly Present (03/31/2013)—(7.) The form for mankind that we call “the body” may exist apart from the divinely given spirit (e.g., at funerals). In the same way, the divinely given spirit may exist apart from the body, and at the completion of mortality, the spirit returns to GOD who gave it (Ecclesiastes 8: 8, 9: 5-6, and 12: 7, KJV). (8.) Conjunction of body and spirit results in the living soul (Genesis 2: 7, KVJ). Each living soul displays unique patterns of consciousness, emotion, and thought that establish its being as person. Person does not exist apart from the living soul. The spirit of the wicked may return to GOD at their death, however, their person does not exist again until resurrection of the wicked for judgment (Proverbs 18: 5, Matthew 13: 47-50 and Revelation 20: 11-15, KJV). (9. ) Thus, for the righteous, resurrection of the body pertains to eternal life, for a perfected spirit must reside within a perfected body. Through the perfected spirit, the perfected person of the righteous also will contain the fullness of divine law. It is in this sense that resurrected believers and those written in the Lamb’s book of life will replace the Temple in the heavens. (See 1st Corinthians 6: 19 and 15: 51-55; also Revelation 21: 1-27, KJV.) (10.) For mankind, the resurrection of the body pertains to the inclusion of glory in the makeup of human person. This is demonstrated by both the resurrection and the Second Coming of Jesus displaying the fullness of all divine glory (Matthew 25: 31, Luke 9: 25-27, 2nd Thessalonians 2: 13-14 and 2nd Timothy 2: 10-13, KJV).

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6: 6-10, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Saved in Childbearing? (10/31/2012); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012); Double Standard? (10/12/2012); Family and Romance (10/13/2012); Why Courage? (10/14/2012); Parental Duty? (10/08/2012); The Gender of Angels? (10/09/2012); Grandchildren? (03/23/2011); A To Do List (03/24/2011); For The Young (01/24/2011); Responsibility? (01/25/2011); Teen Believers? (10/07/2010)

      The answers from an American who is a mature Christian believer, will probably be totally foreign to you, for they come out of faith and extensive spiritual experience in what you might call “the real world.” Without help from Christ, you won’t understand a word. Even so, please consider the following points:

(1.) The institution known among modern men as “family” is not the creation of GOD, and has been developed as an aspect of the World system. Unlike divine creations such as the earth and humanity, The World is the creation of mankind, and is a set of interconnected devices and meanings to exchange resources, and ensure survival.

(2.) The World supplies definitions and values to preserve human life. Included are such labels as beautiful/ugly, fair/unfair, false/true, good/bad, hip/square, holy/unholy, intelligent/stupid, right/wrong, righteous/unrighteous, real/unreal and scientific/unscientific.

(3.) The Flesh (i.e., appetite such as hunger, thirst, sexual cravings; sense such as hearing, seeing, smelling, tasting; and mental functions such as desire, fantasy, imagination, recall) also supplies labels and values as does the Devil (i.e., created beings and living creatures that oppose the sovereignty of GOD), and as does GOD.

(4.) The Gospel of Jesus Christ centers in the transformation of mankind through such divine process as birth, death, judgment, re-birth, repentance, revelation, resurrection and sanctification. Born again through divine DNA, so to speak, believers are “new creatures” (called “the children of God,” “saints” or “sons and daughters of GOD”). Born-again, these must mature again, endure “growing pains,” and continue in a process being perfected through the spirit of GOD.

(5.) Relationships (including covenants and priesthood) and law among mankind are shown to develop, and progress in the Old Testament by displaying thousands of lives over thousands of years. Adam and Eve were a single person before GOD, and were used as an instrument to people the earth. Reproduction among their offspring was not incest or in violation of divine law.

(6.) For mature Christian believers, both marriage and divorce are emblems (badges, representations) of divine authority (What GOD has joined together, let no man put asunder.). The contract for marriage is in force until mortality is completed; thus, death appears as a divine instrument applied for dissolving the divine spiritual union.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (7.) spiritual affiliation and relationships for the people of GOD in Christ are by the imparted, indwelling spirit from GOD, called the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, and the Spirit of Truth. Often, ones carnal, material and social family, friends, spouses, etc. have no part in their new life from GOD. See Luke 14: 25-27, KJV.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/28/2013) The Passion at Gethsemane

      Focus, today, is upon the passion of Christ, and there is more on the Advent of the Holy Spirit. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Billy” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since March 27, 2013) posted the following:

Why did jesus sweat blood?

THE BATTLE AXE: The Spirit and Pentecost (03/27/2013)—The holy seeds planted by Christ were words of proclamation, promise, and prophecy while the actual harvest was to be the glory of the earth contained as the imparted, indwelling spirit from GOD. Called the “promise of the father” (see Acts 1: 4 and 8, KJV), the Comforter (John 14: 26, KJV) and the Spirit of Truth (John 15: 26, KJV), the Spirit found in Jesus was to indwell and transform mankind. The entire Holy Spirit as a person of the GODhead cannot be deposited into mankind. However, mankind receives peculiar gifts that are divine substance representing the life of Jesus, and permitting the further revelation of GOD. As joint-heirs with Jesus, only partial authority and power are bestowed upon mankind, while Christ as the firstborn from death is exalted and preeminent above all (Matthew 28: 17-19 and Colossians 1: 18, King James Version).

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And David went up by the ascent of mount Olivet, and wept as he went up, and had his head covered, and he went barefoot: and all the people that was with him covered every man his head, and they went up, weeping as they went up. (2nd Samuel 15: 30, King James Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Accomplished in Christ? (01/16/2013); The Need to Purify Heaven (01/17/2013); Did Jesus Know? (12/22/2012); The True Miracle (12/23/2012); (09/15/2011) Dispatch 36: His Grace; (08/24/2011) Dispatch 16: The Ally (Wounded); To Save Jesus? (03/12/2011); Having Life? (03/13/2011); The Lord’s Prayer (12/18/2010); Awesomeness? (12/19/2010)

      Billy, many mature Christian believers understand the passion and suffering of Jesus began immediately following the last Passover meal and introduction of the Lord’s Supper that we call “Holy Communion.” His thoughts regarding the purposes of GOD became increasingly troubled and unclear. Jesus did not doubt, yet, he experienced a frightening uncertainty, and an overwhelming sense of sorrow. The agony of crucifixion began within his spirit through the separation for betrayal that was committed by Judas. Just as the rebellion of Absalom against his father King David displayed the wrath of GOD against David in particular, against his entire household and against the covenant nation, Judas leaving the assembly depicts the rejection of Christ by the Temple elders, by all Israel, and by the world as described through the Roman Empire. More than this, Jesus again saw the unchanging wrath of GOD against sin leveled against all the earth as at Noah’s day, and that, both the condemnation and salvation for mankind was being sealed.

      The holy writings report his prayers at that time (see Matthew 26: 36-46 and Mark 14: 32-43, KJV). Specifically we read: And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (See Luke 22: 44, King James Version.) Many read this as saying, Jesus was pouring out his life as he prayed. More correctly, the aspects of flesh are brought into view, for sweat represents effort (works rather than faith) as well as uncleanness (we say “dis- fellowship,” “enmity” and “sin”). His mortality is affirmed, and his death is again foreshadowed as the sweat is swallowed up by the earth (from dust thou art…).

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, in spirit, the trial initiated by Judas was a continuation of the trial from Satan that followed the baptism by John at the Jordan River (e.g., Matthew 4: 1-11, KJV). Many things were unknown to Jesus, and he had to go forward on the basis of his faith not having seen or heard the testimony from heaven that had been given to John (the dove, the voice). Forty burning days and freezing desert nights without food and drinks challenged Jesus to commit himself to a total dependence upon GOD, as would the lash, the crown of thorns, the nails and splinters of the cross.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/15/2012) A Slaughter of Innocents

     Today, I share a response to a writer’s complaint against GOD stemming from the shooting of school children in Connecticut (12/14/2012). Also there is more on remembering the holocaust. The “Yahoo! Answers” user who has the ID “Martin” (Level 4 with 2,768 points, a member since October 26, 2012) posted the following:

Its a music and religous query?

Its that one song titled JESUS LOVES THE LITTLE CHILDREN. are you certain of that, after all that have been murdered? Cause if thats what is meant meaning was that song scripted sarcasticly i sure wouldn’t want to see the almighty’s hatred for us. so bite your tongue we worked all year long sharing our warmth and love of christmas making piano, violin, harp, hand bell musical arrangement for everybody even made those dollar musicals just as nice as the 25 dollar albums for you all and what is the gift that we get back. the news of yet more murders. would you send me the memo when christmas is merry again? this year has ended up being a real downer.

THE BATTLE AXE: Remembering the Holocaust? (12/13/2012)—As a tool provided by divine judgment, holocaust is like a litmus that exposes the presence of elements disguised and hidden within the human heart. Included are blindness, corruption, cruelty, despair, disbelief, distrust, hardness, hate, ignorance, imbalance, immaturity, indifference, malice, and murder. Ethnic cleansing, eugenics, genocide, and holocaust do not proceed as acts of GOD; and all may be classed as human error, and sin. As such, they are less the focus for Christian mind than repentance, rebirth, or the divine content of ones person and its operation through prayer, service and worship. Many examples of spiritually-based attacks upon the people of GOD are recorded in the holy writings. Included are the population control and slaughter of male babies in Egypt at the time of Moses’ birth (Exodus 1, KJV); the Babylonian attack upon the three Hebrew captives who were placed in a burning furnace (Daniel 3, KJV); the planned assault of Haman and the Persian/Median empire ruled by Ahasuerus (Esther 3, KJV); and the slaughter of innocents by the Jewish king, Herod, to destroy the prophesied Messiah at the birth of Jesus (Matthew 2, KJV). It is foolish and immature to argue that the holocaust was more devastating, more “important”, or should be more memorable than the global enslavement of Africans, the calamity of several world wars, the human catastrophe of atomic bombs launched against an island nation, the natural disasters of cyclone, hurricane and storm winds, or even the back-to-back natural disasters of earthquake and tsunami. For Christian believers focus will not be upon emergency preparedness or turning away from human violence so much as upon fulfilling the commands to love, and maintain constant vigilance for the second advent of Jesus. It is their faith that the sure justice of GOD will be provided through that son of the highest who is an anointed Judge, Jesus Christ.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words. (1st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, KJV)


THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Does GOD Feel? (10/05/2012); How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012); After We Die? (10/04/2012); Binder 32: Those Yet Unsaved (10/29/2011); Having Life? (03/13/2011); End of Strife? (03/14/2011); Potter and Clay (12/06/2010)


THE BATTLE CRY: The music ministry of Dietrick Haddon includes a worship medley that encourages believers facing the challenges in life events, and that prophesies the hope and expectation for the Second Coming of Jesus. Readers should hear, from the 2002 album, Lost and Found, Joy of the Lord/Oh the Glory.

     For mature Christian believers, the comforts given by GOD include children, music, and divine promises. There are truths that clarify death, judgment, justice, and righteousness. More than this, there is certainty and unquenchable joy; and so we have a song that says, THE JOY OF THE LORD IS OUR STRENGTH.

     The slaughter of innocents is not a new thing among mankind. The Scriptures record that at the time of Jesus’ birth every child under the age of two in the town of Bethlehem was destroyed as if they were enemies of the state, and “national security risks.” What shocks many of us, today, is to see such cruelty and venom apart from “police action,” politics, and war. Deliberate and planned attacks upon otherwise defenseless children in public schools and care facilities are performed by those who are depraved, mindless, shameless and apparently unloved.

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the human condition is one of mortality, therefore, we have many mechanisms that center on experiencing bereavement, death and separation. The counterbalance is found in the continuity of life, and the truth that life goes on. There is more work to do, more sharing to do, more loving to do. Through Jesus Christ, believers receive a peculiar confidence and optimism we call “joy”. In the face of injustice, persecution and tragedy, we make no complaint against our GOD. Instead, we acknowledge divine gifts that give us peace of mind, saying: The world did not give it; and the world cannot take it away.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/09/2012) The Focus of Judgment?

     The process of divine judgment is the topic, today; and there is more on the motive of destroying Creation. A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Olly” (Level 6 with 10,391 points, a member since February 23, 2008) posted the following:

Why doesn’t God judge people of their good deeds rather than what they believe?

THE BATTLE AXE: An Attack on Creation? (12/08/2012)—Annihilation, destruction and pollution are the unforeseen and “unintended” consequences of ambition, covetousness and inordinate desire. Were they successful, sin and uninformed efforts to reign over the earth would result in the eradication of Creation. The schoolboys who run from the “scene of the crime” unaware of the damage they may have done also are unaware of the many opportunities to have helped out, to have shown compassion and respect, and to have shared support in an emergency. To the extent both angels and men are limited in holy knowledge, revelation and wisdom, all must depend upon a higher power that may guard them against “good intentions” that turn out badly. Believers in Jesus Christ trust that our being and existence is truly the will of the Creator, and our Maker can be relied upon for deliverance, recovery, restoration and salvation. The Scriptures provide some evidence for the notion that, like a fish out of water, those beings that have left heaven are not suited to rule upon the earth. Imbalance is introduced that can only generate ruin for the entire universe. Those who expect to reign over mankind without further instruction, permission, and support from GOD by using such devices as bribery, deceit, destruction, fear, self-promotion and wickedness are deluded.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. (1st Corinthians 15: 40-47, King James Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The “Lake of Mercy” (11/03/2012); Seeking and Being Sought (11/04/2012); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012); Opportunity to Repent (11/02/2012); Sin Unknown? (10/10/2012); When Prayer Works (10/11/2012); After We Die? (10/04/2012); Does GOD Feel? (10/05/2012); Justice Comes by Love (10/01/2012); A Daily Revelation (10/02/2012); Blessings, Curses and Woes (01/03/2012)

     The focus of divine judgment is not so much upon human behavior and social conduct as upon the authenticity and lawfulness of the image projected by created beings and living creatures that should convey and put across the intent, person and purposes of Almighty GOD. The living are provided with various sacred tools that permit believers to cement right relationship with GOD. Included are charitable giving, confession, fasting, forgiving, obeying divine law, prayer, study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and worship.

     Rightly understood, “belief” is hidden, intellectual, internal, and passive. A more full and complete reality of truth is made present when the dimensions (e.g., action, outreach, speech) that affirm principle and make ideas visible also are in view.

     Certainly, the assessment and weighing of ones divine inner nature, of ones performance of sacred duties, and ones fulfillment of spiritual purpose, requires an impartial, unbiased judge, and a righteous judicial process that can respond to every level of awareness and spirit content. The spirit substance that resides in divinity is the standard applied. The living are all examined for such features as faith, holiness, humility, longsuffering, love, peace, wisdom, and wrath against sin. As elements of divine person, these substances are inseparable, and where one appears, all should be present.

     There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the many subtleties (i.e., barely detectable changes, shifts and differences) involved in divine judgment requires a balanced, stable, yet empathetic judge that can take in the many exaggerations of human appetite, feeling and mind without also becoming overwhelmed. Jesus Christ has been prepared to serve as such a judge.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/09/2012) The Gender of Angels?

      Angels are the primary topic, today, and there is more on the duty of parents to require church attendance by their own children. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Jimmy Walters” (Level 1 with 73 points, a member since October 28, 2010) posted the following:

Are angels both male and female?

Additional Details

ty all for your input really i beg that any of you are true believers in the christ almighty ..iam looking into the facts of angels around us sent by god almighty …well…i am lkooking for the servents of god lost to our/mine human eyes

THE BATTLE AXE: Parental Duty? (10/08/2012)—The duty of ones parents to nourish and supervise the course of their child’s spiritual growth is no less vital than the parental duty to recover ones child from a pool of acid by changing their baby’s diaper. Parents are to exercise authority over their minor children in such a way that the heart and mind of GOD is immediately made known and visible to their offspring. Children cannot be nourished through deception, fear, lies, and ungodliness. The age for a child’s accountability varies from 8 to 18 year’s old. Certainly, once a child becomes a young adult (20-25), they are correctly held to be accountable for their own spiritual choices, knowledge, and practice. When children disobey their parents they also unintentionally destroy communication and parental trust, and they dishonor and disrespect their parents. Thus, the person, teachings and values of ones parents must be internalized, that is, made a continuing and permanent part of the child’s awareness. Similarly, by grounding their children in the holy writings, parents provide a tool that supplies answers, comfort, encouragement and guidance whenever the parents are not physically present. As adults, the spiritual inheritance from ones parents is no less important than the features imparted through DNA. Routinely, adults must function when surrounded by others who disbelieve, and who share no divine comfort, or counsel that provides balance and strength to endure. Moreover, to fulfill their roles as spiritual guides and mentors to their own children, parents cannot rely on the natural processes of physical and social growth. Parents must educate themselves as thoroughly as possible in all the things from GOD available to themselves. Even so, their child’s growth in the spirit does not depend so much upon a parent’s scholastic achievements, precise knowledge of the Scriptures, or their strict practice of ceremony and ritual as upon their faith, obedience and trust in GOD through Jesus Christ. In the same way the sins of the parents are in effect as challenges and consequence unto the third and fourth generations, the righteous instruction of ones parents may continue for 160 years (see Exodus 20: 5, Exodus 34: 7, and Numbers 14: 18, King James Version).

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father’s, and of the holy angels. (Luke 9: 26, King James Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Coveting The Throne (03/07/2012); On Going to Heaven (01/13/2012); Girdle 17: Try The Spirits (12/02/2011); Girdle 16: A Drawn Sword (12/01/2011)

      Here are some thoughts you may find helpful:

      Most of us depend upon the Bible and other holy writings for sacred knowledge about the angels. Some have spiritual testimonies of experiences where angels appeared. In general, we understand angels to be created beings and living creatures that abide in heaven, the place of GOD. As such, angels are not mortal, and do not possess the same features and characteristics of mankind, including flesh, gender, and the need to acquire knowledge. GOD is a spirit, and while angels are spoken of as “spirits” and “flames of fire” (see Hebrews 1: 6-8, KJV), angels are very different from Almighty GOD. Angels have authority, curiosity, dimension, eminence, form, power, and spirit-person, however, angels are not incorruptible and immortal.

      The King James Version of the Bible first speaks of “the angel of the Lord” as an emissary and spokesperson from GOD to Hagar (the second wife to Abram), and uses the pronoun “he”. Here, the angel (i.e., messenger) appears in the role of prophet, one who comforts, edifies, and exhorts (see Genesis 16: 7-13). The device of personification where angels, and even GOD, is described as if a human person is used throughout the Scriptures. Many times angels are referred to using “he” and “him”; yet, “she” does not seem to appear. Examples also include Judges 6: 11-23, Judges 13: 20-22 , Acts 12: 7-10 and Revelation 14: 19.

      Angels are variously described in the Scriptures as having faces, feet, hands, wheels, and wings, and are physically portrayed as akin to humankind. Angels are spoken of as having emotions and feelings of anger, joy, and sorrow. Where angels appear in their splendor this is to identify them as sent from GOD as well as to admonish, alert and caution the person to whom they are sent. Angels have assumed human form when appearing to judges, prophets, kings, and apostles; and this is understood as a device to avoid confusion and human error. While compared and contrasted to the Son of GOD (as in Hebrews 2: 5-16), angels are never compared to Almighty GOD; and stern warnings have been issued against the worship of angels (see Revelation 19: 9-10 and Revelation 22: 7-9). Angelic glory is distinct from the glory of GOD the Father, and from the glory of the Son. Jesus commands the armies of heaven as Captain of the Host, and is named Faithful and True. Only Christ is hailed as Regis Angelorum, King of Angels.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, many depictions and descriptions of angels can be found in secular art and literature where angels are portrayed as androgynous and as hermaphrodite (having both male and female sexual parts). This is primarily to convey such attributes as ageless beauty, balance, gentleness, innocence, fullness, lightness, mystery, purity, and sweetness, rather than gender or status as LGBT.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/07/2012) Jesus, King of Earth?

      The ministry of Jesus as Creator and as King are topics, today. The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “21” (Level 3 with 1,827 points, a member since February 6, 2011) posted the following:

Why did God tell his Son to come and sat be side Him on His Throne?
When will Jesus become King of King of earth and sat on King David throne ?

THE BATTLE AXE: How Was GOD Known Before Jesus? (10/06/2012)—Among the names given to the Son of GOD, while his divine person was yet immersed within the fullness of spirit that is Almighty GOD, Scripture records “The Word.” To aspire, speak or utter as divine operations are acts of will that direct breath (spirit) outward to specific objects, and that impart being, order, and existence. In addition to the Incarnate works accomplished by Jesus as Redeemer and Savior, the Son of GOD is shown to be the aspect of GOD we call “Creator” and “Maker”. The peculiar will of GOD functioning as law-giver and life-giver describes a specific Person, and a unique expression of divinity. In this Person, the Son of the Highest has fashioned and put forth created beings and living creatures, the celestial and natural worlds as context for their presence, and the entire framework of divine processes and purposes whereby Creation is maintained and continued. Where GOD has appeared in any physical or other likeness of mankind—for example, to Adam and Eve, Abraham and Moses—reverence and worship were not to be given the visible form or similitude. Focus was to be upon realization of spirit content, sacred will, and spiritual truth. That Divine Person chooses to appear using features that describe the created makes possible communication as prayer, proclamation, promise, and prophecy as well as intimacy and personal relationship with GOD. The Holy should no longer be spoken of or understood as distant, impersonal, insensible, lifeless, remote and unresponsive.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: (Matthew 25: 31-34, King James Version)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); Unwelcome Gifts? (09/17/2012); Why Is GOD Blamed? (08/23/2012); Shaken Once More (08/22/2012); The Work of Jesus (03/13/2012); On The Messiah (02/19/2012); Dispatch 28: The Lord Shall Fight (09/07/2011); Dispatch 20: The Ally (Able to Stand) 08/30/2011

Here are some ideas that belong to the children of GOD you may have missed, or not have seen before:

      The return of Jesus to heaven represents completion of sacred process and fulfillment of divine purpose. The appearance of GOD in flesh (called Incarnation) may be seen as a device to carryout promise and prophecy established through covenant and law. Rightly understood, dominion, monarchy, rule and sovereignty are frameworks created through the flesh, and by the world. Carnal, material and social realities come into view that only describe conditions for, and the interaction of created beings and living creatures. Through covenants and promises to mankind, otherwise invisible, Almighty GOD is made known and revealed to all living. GOD is a spirit, yet we speak of GOD as a ruler, and one who governs. This is largely because our human concepts of order emerge by experience of what we call dimension, time and space.

      The flesh (appetite such as hunger, thirst, cravings for sexual contact—sensation such as hearing, seeing, tasting, touching—and mind, such features as desire, fantasy, imagination, recall) dominates human awareness. The world (not speaking of the earth, the agreement and consensus created by mankind to exchange and share resources for survival) also generates definitions of good/bad, reality/unreality, right/wrong, false/true. The rule of GOD proclaimed by the holy writings is to be understood as first natural, then spiritual, then eternal.

      There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, balance, fullness and oneness of Divine Person is affirmed by the return of the Messiah to the heavens, where he must serve as High Priest completing Atonement, cleansing the Sanctuary, and also serve as Judge in the final tribunals examining the wicked. The Son of GOD will continue manifest as Incarnate; and the further revelation of GOD will go forward as eternal life with full access to divine presence.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.


THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC