(03/11/2020) Born Mortal or Immortal?

 

Today, reply is on the humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ at his birth. In the same way Eve was fashioned from Creation appearing within the rib of Adam, and was not fashioned from the soil of the earth, Jesus Christ was not fashioned from dust, and was made manifest from the substance of Mary as a sanctified vessel containing aspects of divine Creation. It is written: Luke 1: 26-33, King James Version (KJV): 26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Nick” (Level 1 with 247 points) posted the following:

 

Was Jesus Christ born mortal or immortal?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. (John 1: 10-14, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Acknowledging Christ as Son (03/08/2020); Aspects Defining Human Life? (03/02/2020); Spirit Process and Substance (02/27/2020); Godliness Characterizes Authentic Humanity (02/06/2020); Do Animals Have “Souls”? (01/19/2020); Will Jesus Come Soon? (01/09/2020); Fully Communicating Human Potential? (09/30/2019); The Penalty of Death? (04/26/2019)

 

“Nick”, Jesus was born filled with the Holy Spirit, consecrated and sanctified, yet, was mortal. At present, only divinity exists as having immortality; mankind is mortal; and angels and the sacred beasts in heaven have “duration” within the frameworks of time and space, yet, are neither mortal nor immortal. Existing as spirit in form, divinity also is incorruptible and invisible. The appearance of divinity on earth using human form and process as Jesus Christ to provide an atonement for sin, redemption, and salvation required authentic humanity be displayed through birth from a woman, acknowledgment of sacred law, aging, growth, learning, mortality, suffering, death, and resurrection from the dead. The divine process for those living on the earth to recover and be restored from the sin of Adam has been demonstrated in the life and ministry of Jesus including the imparting of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity (we say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth). Inseparable aspects of divine fullness (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) make possible the forms of communication, exchange and interaction among the living that we speak of as a new covenant relationship with GOD. Examples are balance, commitment, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Sinners who turn to GOD through Christ become developing believers who are “born again”, must become mature again, and are to display the image of GOD while living on the earth. As mature believers, the saints are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of the Lord. The full transformation from mortal to immortal that believers are to undergo will be completed at the appearing of Christ (we say, the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and selection from the music ministry of Pro Musica Leánykar; Pro Musica Girls Choir, Hungary (Nyíregyháza):

(1.) Isaiah 11: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: 2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; 3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: 4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth: with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. 5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.

(2.) Isaiah 9: 6-7, KJV: 6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

(3.) Luke 1: 34-35, KJV: 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, the Ave Maria of Franz Biebl is a Catholic prayer said at 6am, 12 noon and 6pm: “The Angel of the Lord Declared unto Mary and she conceived of the Holy Ghost” followed by the Hail Mary then “Mary said” “Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it done unto me according to Thy word”. Hail Mary..then “and the Word(Jesus Christ)was made flesh and dwelt amongst us” followed by a final Hail Mary. (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV7l0uqOD_8&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLN0d5BuUaMYlRM-Z4tim65s&index=4&t=0s). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 12:38 AM, March 11, 2020 @ http://userpages.bright.net/~weenee/christmas/nativity.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/08/2019) Divinity and Human Reproduction

A depiction of the Blessed Virgin

 

Today, reply is on a debate about abortions, and judging others for their choices and opinions. Christians are encouraged to rely on counsels, guidance, and instruction within the household of faith that are available as divine law, sacred principles, a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity, and the holy writings. The man-made belief system that we call the world generates arguments, meanings, and quarrels along with standards and values that promote spiritual confusion, and that challenge and contradict Christian belief. The issue of abortion is more than one of correct medical practice, or private and public health. Many hold that a fetus (the unborn, developing organism within a female) is not a child; therefore, removing and destroying such organic material is no different than what we do with a cancer. Others understand that childbearing is more than a carnal and physical work of ones flesh; the fetus is established as having personhood through operations that occur within both parents long before birth that entail accountability, commitment and love with emotional, psychological, and spiritual imperatives that may not be dismissed or ignored. There are elements related to birth control, gender differences and disparities, political and social imbalance, and responding to unexpected and unwanted pregnancy. There are issues of freedom from the duties, responsibilities, pain, and unpleasantness of pregnancy. There are issues of adult independence; exercising the privilege and right of decision-making for ones own benefit; how best to fulfill ones sexual appetite; how to respond to life opportunities; and promoting oneself to profit in various social settings and situations. Those in covenant relationship with divinity, who willingly present themselves to GOD for unselfish service, raise no objection against being held accountable for works such as creating families and stable communities; displaying Christ-likeness and the image of GOD; holy matrimony; parenting; priesthood; and demonstrating lives dedicated and devoted to carrying out the will of GOD. Christian believers are granted the example of the Virgin Mary—who was called upon to serve as the mother of Jesus Christ. Mary had been raised set apart (sanctified) for divine service, yet, was despised because she was a childless woman. The angel Gabriel visited Mary as a sign that the things proclaimed, promised, and prophesied from GOD for Israel and for mankind would all appear, and become manifest. When it was announced that she would be a caretaker and mother, her response revealed a correct commitment and readiness to serve, and she acknowledged and proclaimed the name and works of GOD. It is written: Luke 1: 46-55, King James Version (KJV): 46 And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, 47 And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. 48 For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. 49 For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. 51 He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52 He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. 53 He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. 54 He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; 55 As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shown) posted the following:

 

Is it Pro-choice or pro-abortion?

In religion class we we’re having a debate about abortion. Pro-life vs. Pro choice. Someone then decided to talk about a girl who was pregnant and decided to keep the baby because that was HER CHOICE. Now one of the people who claimed to be pro choice started asking questions as to why the girl decided to keep the baby. She said that the girl should’ve had an abortion. “Why put yourself through that ****?” And I was there thinking, “because it was her choice. Why are you judging her choice when you believe a woman should do whatever they like with their body?” Keep in mind this was not a thought that made me want to hate her. This was just a thought of realization. I just want my question to be answered so I understand a person’s beliefs. So I guess what I’m trying to ask, is someone that judges a girl for not getting an abortion still pro choice or is it pro abortion. I just want to understand. I’m sorry if I offended anyone, I just want to learn from you guys so I don’t question a person’s beliefs ever again on something like this.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. (Galatians 5: 16-26, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: By Death and Resurrection (10/29/2019); When Christians Weigh Abortion (05/17/2019); Divine Purposes Are Unchanging (04/22/2019); Life Exists Before Birth (01/23/2019); The Virginity of Mary (01/14/2019); Mary and Joseph Followed (11/28/2018); Saved in Childbearing (10/31/2012); After the Rapture? (11/01/2012)

 

“Anonymous”, here are some points you may find useful. Rather than focus on abortions and failed pregnancy (miscarriage, stillborn), the Scriptures provide accounts of miraculous birth, guidance regarding conditions and prenatal care for those born to become sacred servants of GOD as well as the “slaughter of innocents” by rulers who sought to maintain their political advantages by destroying every child that could have been sent from GOD. Many mature Christian believers think of their choice for Jesus Christ as their redeemer and savior as also having provided closure and resolution for multiple problems and questions pertaining to how created beings and living creatures should respond to one another, and how mankind should respond to divinity. The ideas and language to discuss “pro-abortion”, “pro-choice”, and “pro-life” are from the man-made world system developed for exchange, trade, and survival, and does not appear within the holy writings that speak to human reproduction, the divine process to populate the earth, the appearance of divinity using human form as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation), and the present embodiment of sacred spirit within humanity. Because Christians choose to acknowledge the authority, dominion, and sovereignty of GOD, abortion is widely understood as a medical procedure to terminate pregnancy where specific health conditions are diagnosed and evaluated that are obstacles to continuing the child’s development within the mother, and to completing a natural birth of her child. Practice of abortions by those who are not licensed and registered with the government as properly trained medical professionals has been regarded as criminal. For their collective survival, governments must address the issues of communication, population growth, the availability and distribution of shared resources (debts, fees, fines, taxes, etc.), and the provision of clean air, water, medicines, and food necessary for healthy living, and for maintenance of their commonwealth. New life in Jesus Christ and citizenship within the kingdom of heaven are not through human reproduction, childbearing, and birth so much as through the resurrection of Christ. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible on the birth of Samson, and a selection from the music ministry of the Pro Musica Girl’s Choir from Hungary:

(1.) Judges 13: 6-14, King James Version (KJV): 6 Then the woman came and told her husband, saying, A man of God came unto me, and his countenance was like the countenance of an angel of God, very terrible: but I asked him not whence he was, neither told he me his name: 7 But he said unto me, Behold, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and now drink no wine nor strong drink, neither eat any unclean thing: for the child shall be a Nazarite to God from the womb to the day of his death. 8 Then Manoah intreated the LORD, and said, O my Lord, let the man of God which thou didst send come again unto us, and teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born. 9 And God hearkened to the voice of Manoah; and the angel of God came again unto the woman as she sat in the field: but Manoah her husband was not with her. 10 And the woman made haste, and ran, and shewed her husband, and said unto him, Behold, the man hath appeared unto me, that came unto me the other day. 11 And Manoah arose, and went after his wife, and came to the man, and said unto him, Art thou the man that spakest unto the woman? And he said, I am. 12 And Manoah said, Now let thy words come to pass. How shall we order the child, and how shall we do unto him? 13 And the angel of the LORD said unto Manoah, Of all that I said unto the woman let her beware. 14 She may not eat of any thing that cometh of the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean thing: all that I commanded her let her observe.

(2.) Psalms 127: 3-4, KJV: 3 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. 4 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.

(3.) 1^st Timothy 2: 14-15, KJV: 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV7l0uqOD_8.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 6:06 AM, November 08, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/originals/f1/5f/15/f15f157ed53f50f5e6d3c5106d970206.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/23/2019) Believers Minister Through Prayer

 

Today, reply is on practicing intercessory prayer as a necessary ministry among all Christians. As with praise, prayer is not a work completed apart from Christ, and without the Holy Spirit. Within the church founded by Jesus Christ, sharing praise and unselfish prayer are among the highest forms of service. While still on the earth, before his crucifixion, the Son of the Highest prayed that his followers would be made one with himself and with the Father. Believers are to take on a consciousness that goes beyond expressing individuality, self-promotion, or their own desires, emotions, lusts, and needs. There must be shared accord and action to accomplish the objectives of divine law, eternal purpose, mercy in judgment, and the sovereign will of GOD. It is written: Romans 8: 26-27, 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. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

 

Why do Catholics say, “Pray for me”?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people’s: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore. (Hebrews 7: 23-28, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Make Me A Servant (04/08/2019); How GOD Speaks Today (12/10/2018); Anything We Ask For? (09/12/2018); Duties of a Christian? (03/13/2018); Benefits of the Rosary (02/14/2017); The Power in Prayer? (08/22/2014); The Rosary and Other Prayers? (08/23/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, within the church of Jesus Christ, prayer is not supposed to be a work carried out only by the clergy. In the same way many Christians have grown up being familiar with and reciting the Lord’s prayer, yet, not also studying the Bible or regularly performing other sacred practices, many Christians are familiar with the prayers of the Rosary that include language requesting the Mother of Jesus will provide ministry through intercessory prayer. Many object that Mary can not serve as a mediator between GOD and mankind; however, as one of the saints who first received the gifts of the Holy Spirit within the upper room, Mary can serve as a mediator with her son. The ability to properly approach divinity with compassion, sincerity, and unselfishness on behalf of others only becomes possible in the life of sinners through endowments of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup and substance of GOD, and through operations of the Holy Spirit. The power in prayer does not appear by importuning and humbly repeating ones requests so much as by ones return of spirit content from GOD (e.g., commitment, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, wrath against sin). In the same way an anointed pastor (shepherd) or ordained priest is a caretaker who must continually provide guidance, instruction and preaching that nourishes and strengthens the full congregation, all the members are to acknowledge an accountability for offering prayer, and a duty to pray for one another. Even those having limited resources and talents, and those who are recently become part within the community of faith, can make their voices heard in group and private prayer that petition for comfort, edification, and zeal (i.e., outpouring of the Holy Spirit; prophecy). Consider again the following that uses language from the Rosary, the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amoung women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen

2. Philippians 4: 6-7, King James Version (KJV): 6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

3. 1^st Timothy 2: 1-6, KJV: 1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBHzNGdigtY). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 6:02 PM, September 22, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/94/2d/e5/942de590f92432e9108921bb8776e3f8.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/09/2019) According To Divine Purpose

 

Today, reply is on the continuing acknowledgment of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD that appears in Christian prayer. To become a Christian is more than simply be a part of a casual or loose association of neighbors. To become a Christian is to become a member within a sacred priesthood. Therefore, the prayer uttered by a believer should display their correct sacred knowledge of divine process, of properly displaying reverence to divinity, and of the workings of prophecy. The content and focus of prayer is to be the shared divine purpose. Prayer as leaders and workers within the body of Christ may be expected from mature believers endowed with spirit substance from GOD more than from those who are yet developing whose primary concerns continue to center on oneself and ones own family. Prayer in accord with the will of GOD does not express ambition, covetousness, envy, exaggerated pride, selfishness, and other works of the flesh. All Christian believers are recruited to serve divinity in roles that include judges who administer divine law and sacred judgment; kings who govern and rule as agents of the dominion; pastors and shepherds who maintain consecrated flocks; priests who offer required and voluntary gifts; and prophets and spokespersons declaring the oracles from GOD, and the needs or petitions of his covenant people. There may be family and private prayer as communication to express otherwise hidden emotion and personal secrets to GOD; even so, prayer for the full body is an indispensable sacred work that has formal elements and structure. The name, reputation, and how we are to speak of GOD are framed by gratitude, praise, and reverence. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “rollickingredsfan” (Level 5 with 6,496 points, a member since March 02, 2010) posted the following:

 

Christians : Why, in the Lord’s Prayer, do you pray ‘ thy will be done ‘, yet when you pray on behalf of yourself or a loved, you pray for..?

your own, desired outcome ?…Not trying to be smart alec here, just that this is something I’ve always wondered about . Thank you .

Update: Oh, and just to add to my thoughts here, lotsa people consider a ‘ no ‘ answer from God to be a non – answer…Ever notice that ?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation. He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy; As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever. (Luke 1: 46-55, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Process Is Unselfish (05/12/2019); Receiving What We Ask (09/20/2018); Anything We Ask For? (09/12/2018); What May We Request? (05/24/2018); Praying For “More Faith”? (01/12/2018); As An Anointed Body (10/04/2017); Names For Sacred Persons? (08/01/2017)

 

“rollickingredsfan”, here are some points to consider that often are overlooked by sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ, and become developing Christians:

A person’s focus on salvation may begin and continue indefinitely as a form of introspection, judgment, and self-assessment; however, properly understood, those who turn to Christ enter into a relationship of service to divinity wherein they are to display Christ-likeness, and reflect the image of GOD.

Those who are “born again” receive a fresh endowment of life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of divinity, and are to “grow up again” to become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing.

The developing believer must undergo a transformation to exist as a life companion to immortal, incorruptible, invisible divinity. In addition to fulfilling duties and works for disciples, developing and mature believers are molded through discovery; fellowship with those anointed and ordained by divinity; giving; gradual growth; practice of discernment; praise; prophecy; study of the holy writings; unselfish service; teaching; suffering; and worship.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, Christians are all called to operate as members within the full body of Jesus Christ on the earth. All are called to serve in his priesthood proclaiming divine law, sacred promise, prophecy, and revelation. With this in view, communication with divinity and prayer also are transformed. Prayers from the Bible that best serve as examples to believers acknowledge eternal purpose, and express confession of sin, gratitude, and humility along with petitions for supplies.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 5:10 AM, June 09, 2019 @ http://www.relatably.com/q/img/good-friday-bible-verses-kjv/d6551c603806433b44c7855d57de6239.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/25/2019) No Respecter Of Persons

 

Today, reply is on the favor shown to Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, and behaving as a respecter of persons. There are two forms of “respecting persons” that appear within the holy writings: 1. judicial respect of persons is the transgression of sacred law that sees bias, influence and partiality in carrying out tribunals, applying sacred law to resolve conflicts and settle disputes, or in determining outcomes and sentences of trials; and 2. social respect of persons that sees undue favor and preference shown to someone on the basis of such features as their formal education, their ethnic background and national origin, their family connections, their office and position, their reputation, their status, or their wealth. Early Christian believers were commanded to maintain decorum, hierarchy and order among members within the church and the larger community by showing obedience, respect and reverence. Thus, Romans 13: 7-8 King James Version (KJV): 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes” (Level 1 with no points shown, a member since May 18, 2018) posted the following:

 

Luke 1:28 says that Mary is very favored, so how is God no respecter of persons(Rom 2:11)?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. (James 2: 1-10, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Virginity of Mary (01/14/2019); Chosen Through Sacred Process (09/06/2018); Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); A Descendant of David? (03/18/2018); The First To Help? (12/22/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Laws Favoring the Poor? (03/06/2017); The Respect of Persons? (10/14/2016)

 

“Owner Of All Cosmos&Universes”, there are multiple differences among created beings and living creatures, yet, GOD has authority to set apart (sanctify) individuals to himself, and to punish or reward according to the provisions of divine law. In the holy writings, divinity is revealed as the Creator and Maker who has put forth all existence, life, and duration. Divine fullness (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is known through active presence; by sacred operations and divine processes such as forgiveness, healing, judgment, praise, prayer, thanksgiving, sanctification, and worship; by such inseparable attributes as faith, forbearance, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, and wisdom as well as by being the embodiment of dominion, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign will. While the divine work of final judgment expresses the wrath of GOD against sin, all divine judgment is carried out with balance, impartiality, restraint, and righteousness. The spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that resides within the living is examined using the record of a person’s deeds appearing within the Book of Life. Influences that would result in errors of judgment are not indulged. Included are ethnic and racial bias; age discrimination; caste or class distinctions based on finances, poverty, and wealth; marital status; national origin; prejudice based on employment and vocation (e.g., sanitation workers); and ones sexual purity. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Deuteronomy 1: 15-18, King James Version (KJV): 15 So I took the chief of your tribes, wise men, and known, and made them heads over you, captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, and captains over fifties, and captains over tens, and officers among your tribes. 16 And I charged your judges at that time, saying, Hear the causes between your brethren, and judge righteously between every man and his brother, and the stranger that is with him. 17 Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring it unto me, and I will hear it. 18 And I commanded you at that time all the things which ye should do.

2. Psalms 4: 3, KJV: 3 But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the LORD will hear when I call unto him.

3. Psalms 7: 10-11, KJV: 10 My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart. 11 God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.

4. Ezekiel 16: 49-50, KJV: 49 Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. 50 And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw good.

5. Acts 10: 30-35, KJV: 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. 34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 6. 1^st Peter 1: 16-21, KJV: 16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. 17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: 18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

 

(01/14/2019) The Virginity of Mary

A depiction of Mary

 

Today, the reply is on the holiness and virginity of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. Ordinarily, a woman loses her virginity, and sheds her blood of innocence during her first sexual intercourse when her hymen (i.e., a small piece of flesh within her vagina that serves as a seal upon her womb) is broken by the penetration of a male penis. The hymen of the mother of Jesus Christ was broken at his birth, and his coming was by water and the blood. The importance of Mary is not due to her own merit, divine nature, and sacred accomplishments, rather, it is because she has been an instrument for fulfillment of sacred prophecy, divine promises, eternal purpose, and the revelation of Jesus Christ. A we ourselves also are to be, Mary appears as a vessel to contain spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD, and to whom sin is no longer imputed. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Nathan H” (Level 3 with 1,856 points, a member since April 17, 2008) posted the following:

 

Why does the people of the Catholics beleivesing that Mary was always virginized, when Mattnew says Joseph had sex with her?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus. (Matthew 1: 18-25, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Benefits of the Rosary (02/14/2017); About Praying to Mary (08/21/2015); Sodom and Gomorrah Again? (05/30/2016); It Is Our Wisdom To Ask (05/18/2015); The Power in Prayer? (08/22/2014); The Rosary and Other Prayers? (08/23/2014)

 

“Nathan H”, many mature Christians acknowledge that, in the same way Mary, who gave birth to their Savior Jesus Christ, experienced having gender as a human female, she also experienced human sexuality as a female with the birth of her other children. Even so, these same believers understand that her virginity was, and continues to be, a spiritual condition established through operations of the same Holy Spirit that performed to create heaven and earth. Inseparable aspects from the makeup of divinity appear that include faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, purity, and simplicty.

Mary is important to Christian belief as an instrument of GOD for the full revelation of divinity. The birth of Jesus was not through human reproduction and sexuality: Jesus was made to be and exist within Mary by operations of the Holy Spirit. Believers are to see the workings of divine authority, love, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The embodiment (we say, Incarnation) of divinity appearing as Jesus Christ, and using the human forms of flesh and mind, required both the birth and death of Jesus to establish his humanity as authentic. Similarly, the humanity of Mary is shown to be genuine, and displays the full range of human challenges, needs, and possibilities that include humility and covenant relationship with GOD.

There is no report in the holy writings, that Mary was baptized as Jesus was by John the Baptist. Even so, after fasting and prayer in the Upper Room, Mary received the gifts of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost along with the apostles of Jesus. She served as one of the witnesses to his crucifixion, and to his resurrection. To those of the early church, Mary was an evidence of things unseen, and a “foretaste” of things to come.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, because the character, makeup and substance of GOD are the actual focus, many Christians are comfortable with the Scriptures and teachings concerning Mary that can only be embraced correctly through operations of faith and of the Holy Spirit. Included are the ascension of Mary, the coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven, the acknowledgment of sacred mysteries from the lives of Jesus and Mary using the Rosary prayers, and the sanctification of Mary as a perpetual virgin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/28/2018) Mary and Joseph Followed

The image displays a lithograph from L. Turgis et Fils Editeurs Paris, 1893

 

Today, reply is on the faith, works, and embodiment of divinity that was displayed through the human pair sanctified to serve as the parents of Jesus Christ. What believers should expect from the sacred pair, Mary and Joseph, is very much the same as the events and expressions shared by other sacred pairs throughout the holy writings that share in the revelation of Jesus Christ. Adam and Eve, Abraham and Sarah, Elizabeth and Zacharias, Anna and Simeon all display the patterns of childbearing as a sacred event and an important element of prophetic demonstration for those serving as spokespersons (prophets) of GOD. These divine parental figures appear as “earthen vessels” who are imperfect and who lack full sacred knowledge, yet, are filled with consecrated treasure. Thus, keeping in mind that the birth of Jesus was at a time before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit when Jerusalem meant the law, the covenant of Moses, the Temple, and tradition, Mary and Joseph were ignorant and short sighted, yet, fed and nourished the Spirit within Jesus sharing their own blood, sweat, tears, and sacred substance. It is written: Luke 2: 40-45, King James Version (KJV): 40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. 41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. 43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. 44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. 45 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Godless Goddess” (Level 6 with 17,956 points, a member since September 09, 2009) posted the following:

 

Wouldn’t we expect Mary and Joseph..?

to be highly involved with sharing their sons’s holy status? Instead, we don’t hear anything mentioned about Mary and Joseph spreading the good news all his life, and Jesus leaves town to go do the miracles.. if Mary and Joseph knew he was so holy and special, wouldn’t they be exclaiming that and following him their entire lives?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man. (Luke 2: 46-52, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); A Descendent of David? (03/18/2018); In The Image of Man (05/04/2016); (08/21/2015) About Praying to Mary (08/21/2015); Christ the Son of David? (06/12/2015); The Divine Use of a Human Life? (04/23/2013); Quoting Scripture to GOD? (04/24/2013)

 

“Godless Goddess”, here are some points for developing Christian believers to prayerfully consider regarding the accountability, faithfulness, and service as holy prophets that was demonstrated by Mary and Joseph as the earthly caretakers of Jesus Christ:

1. An overabundance of divine presence, foreknowledge, sacred mystery, and revelation to the sacred pair would have blemished the presentation of authentic humanity that the Word was sent to demonstrate on the earth. In addition to sharing limitations through the frameworks of time and space, they all were subject to the finite elements of flesh such as aging, fatigue, lack of information, physical pain, and the inheritance of mortality as the lawful consequence from the sin of the first pair, Adam. Matthew 20: 22-23, King James Version (KJV): 22 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. 23 And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.

2. Guiding, nourishing and protecting the holy child, the sacred pair endured the same fear, hardship, mental anguish, and uncertainties that came upon him, yet, did not operate having the same anointing, sacred opportunities, eternal purpose, and focused possibilities. Childbearing, parenting, and fulfillment of covenant duty are contrasted against redemption, salvation, and provision of a new testament in his blood. Luke 8: 34-38, KJV: 34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; 35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. 36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; 37 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Chosen to be a sanctified vessel for divinity using flesh and human form (we say, Incarnation), the mother of Jesus, Mary, would demonstrate release from the law through death by having new life as the widow of Joseph. Mary also would be an eyewitness to the death of Jesus on the cross; be among the first to acknowledge and proclaim the resurrection of Christ; and, with the brothers and sisters of Jesus, be among those disciples and apostles who tarried together in the upper room waiting to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit that were poured out on the day of Pentecost. Continuing as a vessel for the Godhead, Mary was among the first to become a new creation and serve also as a vessel for the Holy Spirit. Acts 2: 16-21, KJV: 16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: 18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come: 21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/13/2017) Having Personhood Without Gender?

A Depiction of the Three Aspects/Persons of Divine Fullness:
The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit

 

Today, reply is on the absence of a “Mother” among the three spirit appearances of divine person.  Without re-opening the quarrels against Mary the birth-mother of Jesus being respected with a title (The Mother of GOD), the Trinity comes into view here as a spirit entity that should not be thought of as like any ordinary human individual.  The exalted character, makeup, and possibilities of GOD must be acknowledged as on a higher plane than that of the angels and mortal men.  Many Christian believers are appalled to think that men on the earth still dare describe the sovereign over all Creation by using “weak and beggarly elements” such as gender, ethnicity, nationality, politics, race, or the amount of earthly wealth men accumulate and squander.  A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Bubba” (Level 2 with 652 points, a member since November 24, 2016) posted the following:

Religion: Can someone give some insight to the below statement?

If God is referred to as the Father, then who is the Mother? Serious question.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;  To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;  Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.  (Hebrews 7:  1-3, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Thoughts On Divine Personhood (12/07/2017); GOD Appearing As Christ (12/03/2017); In Order To Understand (12/01/2017); All Divinity in ONE? (11/17/2017); The Mother of GOD? (12/09/2016); The Gender of GOD? (12/29/2015); A Kindness to Mary? (04/21/2013); When GOD Controls? (04/22/2013)

 

“Bubba”, GOD is a spirit who does not display gender except when using human form (we say, using embodiment; Incarnation).  Spirit substance can not be known relying on finite human tools such as emotion, intellect, secular knowledge, logic, and carnal reason.   Divine spirit is diffuse (i.e., may spread over a boundless expanse without loss of adherence, coherence, and integrity), is invisible to the human eye, and is without dimension (i.e., can not be measured in accordance with patterns from the frameworks of time and space like density, depth, height, and length).  The fullness (entire array) of divine spirit substances are being revealed to created beings and living creatures as the GODhead (the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), and are not like the many material things we compare to spirit that have particles (e.g., clouds, fog, mist, smoke).  Included are inseparable spirit content from the full makeup of divinity such as faith, forbearance, holiness, humility, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Because the church is a spiritual body created by divinity and endowed with those spirit gifts, only the church is spoken of as the “bride of Christ.”

Serious answers and responses to your question from Christian believers can take many forms, for the “active presence” (we also say, breath, life essence, spirit, Word) who is GOD indwells sinners who become “born again.”  As among the three persons of the single GODhead, believers will display accord and oneness without sameness.  The inborn spirit must die, be buried, and be raised from the dead; and the sinner must be reborn having divine DNA, so to speak.  Because developing believers have a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD, Christians may be called the children of GOD, joint heirs with Jesus Christ as well as priests and kings, saints within the kingdom of GOD, and the new creation.  The reproduction of the image of GOD in mankind is a sacred process, rather than a mechanical or natural process such as we see in sexual reproduction.  What some count as the distinct expressions and traits from a mother (e.g., gentleness, obedience, patience, strength, sweetness, the ability to weep unselfishly for and with others) should appear through every member of the body of Christ (the church).  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  John 4:  23-24, King James Version (KJV):  23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth:  for the Father seeketh such to worship him.  24 God is a Spirit:  and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

(2.)  Galatians 4:  4-7, KJV:  4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.  6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.  7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

(3.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and made a part of our own spirit makeup.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 19:  7-11, KJV:  7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him:  for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.  8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white:  for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.  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.  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.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(09/01/2017) Doctrine, Faith, and Mary?

 

Today, reply centers on agreement of essential doctrine and teachings in the church with a believer’s personal expression of faith.  There are many Christian believers who dismiss instruction, study of the Bible, church history and policy in favor of their own heartfelt experiences and sacred discoveries.  Some do so because they want to deny what they do not understand.  Others seek a surrender of the self to GOD by their own immersion in the shared practices and teachings.  Doctrine appears through preaching and formal presentations that should articulate, explain and reveal the workings of faith that is a spirit content from the makeup of GOD.  Faith is made up only of faith, and is inseparable from other aspects of divinity such as forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, joy, longsuffering, loving-kindness, meekness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Faith should acknowledge and initiate practical expressions of doctrine and teachings that make visible the active presence who is GOD.  “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of GOD,” thus, faith is built upon doctrine that provides order and structure for cooperative interaction.  The correctness, fullness and perfection of doctrine are to be sought as a necessary focus and exercise of faith.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “anonymous” (Level 2 with 306 points, a member since December 27, 2016) posted the following:

 

Must I believe that the Holy Ghost impregnated Mary to be a Christian?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended:  but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.  Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded:  and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.  Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.  Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.  (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:  Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)  For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:  Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.  (Philippians 3:  13-21, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Obstacles To Developing Believers (07/24/2017); Operations of Christian Faith (04/28/2017); Benefits of the Rosary (02/14/2017); The Mother of GOD? (12/09/2016); Can A Church Not Be “Religious”? (07/27/2016); Sadducees and The Cross? (03/13/2016); Is Mary A Goddess? (08/25/2015)

 

“anonymous”, prophecy is a process of GOD that relies on spirit.  The wholeness of sacred truth that declares the Creation of heaven and earth by GOD requires acknowledgement of spirit (we say, breath, life essence, word) that can not be apprehended relying on finite intellect, logic, and carnal reason.  It is important for Christian believers to understand the Incarnation of GOD as one of the many sacred operations whereby the fullness of divinity is being made knowable, known, “visible”, and accessible to all created beings and living creatures.

The divine fullness (we say, the three persons of the GODhead, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) is a single Deity who has put forth all that exists, all that live, and the settings for their continued duration.  To communicate, exchange and interact with GOD do require elements and features that are flesh and blood, material, secular and social, yet, to fully comprehend divinity is impossible without the elements and features put forth as spirit content from the makeup of GOD.  In addition to authority, power, and sovereign will are such divine provisions as covenant relationship, election, sacred law, miracles, prayer, priesthood, divine promise, repentance, sacraments, and sacred knowledge.

Sinners are to become developing believers who are gradually built up and transformed to exist as companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity.  The same oneness without sameness appearing within the GODhead should be seen in assemblies and communities of faith.  There may be great diversity; and only occasionally will all display the same level of commitment, knowledge, maturity, or zeal.  Believers are called into dependency and self-government under the dominion of Christ that sometimes is mistakenly called “free will.”  All are to be grounded and operate on the basis of their own endowment of faith.  Where the imparted spirit from GOD is the primary endowment for unity, the secondary mechanism for accord and agreement is the fixed, unchanging doctrines and teachings from GOD.

There is far more to be said and correctly examined in order to gain the blessings to be had through the full fabric of Christian belief.  (For example, the birth of Jesus Christ pertains to eternal purposes of GOD, the suspension of time and space as obstacles to the action and movement of divine spirit, the fulfillment of sacred promises, the restoration of prophecy, and the completion of things begun before the foundation of the world, and are not merely a matter of human appetites, sexual excitement, and animal reproduction.  Yes, all Christians should acknowledge that, through operations of the Holy Spirit, Jesus is the child that would be given birth through Mary.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(02/14/2017) Benefits of the Rosary

 

Today, the full benefit and use of the Rosary is considered.  It continues to be very challenging for those on the earth to accept that our own words and deeds are “weak and beggarly elements” that reek and make us appear as adorned wearing “filthy rags.”  Intercession, the prayers of the church, and offerings from saints (who include the mother of Jesus) become fragrant before the Father only as expressions by and with the Son or Holy Spirit.  Thus, believers may also say, “if God be for Mary, who can be against Mary?”  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “David” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since February 14, 2017) posted the following:

 

Do you have to use the rosary as a meditation tool? Can I just use it for prayer?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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.  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.  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.  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.  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.  What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?  (Romans 8:  26-31, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Salvation By Faith Alone? (01/19/2017); The Power in Prayer? (08/22/2014); The Rosary and Other Prayers? (08/23/2014); Faith, Language, and “Mystery”? (04/11/2013); GOD Knows Tomorrow? (04/12/2013); Outgrowing Childhood Prayers? (04/07/2013); Confessing Only to GOD? (04/08/2013)

 

“David”, we may not separate the wet from the water.  It is correct for the followers of Jesus Christ to seek every available benefit and blessing shared through the discipline of Rosary prayer.  As we start, answering the Rosary may seem to be merely a matter of memorization and recitation.  However, the believer truly is submitting to operations by the Holy Spirit that are to produce permanent changes in their consciousness and self-will.  We are to keep in mind, the sacred things we are receiving are to fit us as servants who will minister to others.  Our gaze must fix upon the image of GOD in Christ.  All the revelation from GOD is to make divinity clearly active and present within the life of believers.  Through the Savior, we enter into the divine process of change and transformation that provides atonement, new creation, and the beginnings of eternal life, now.  While the utterance of the Rosary prayers can be simply understood as saying “I love you,” the commitment, conviction, and separation of the Rosary proclaim the believer’s participation in multiple aspects of profound sacred practice.  Included are anointing, baptism, circumcision, forgiveness, Incarnation, oneness without sameness within the GODhead, rebirth, and resurrection.  The things of our salvation are provided as gifts on the basis of faith, grace, divine prerogative, and eternal purpose, rather than the extent of our intellect, knowledge (both sacred and secular), carnal reason, and finite wisdom.  We are correct to repeatedly examine the holy mysteries (events) from the lives of Christ and his mother, for they impart to us an abundance of spirit from the makeup of GOD.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  1st Timothy 3:  16, King James Version (KJV):  16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness:  God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

(2.)  Colossians 1:  26-28, KJV:  26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:  27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:  28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

(3.)  Numbers 21:  8-9, KJV:  8 And the LORD said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole:  and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.  9 And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.

(4.)  Isaiah 42:  1-3, KJV:  1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him:  he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.  2 He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.  3 A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench:  he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  2nd Corinthians 3:  17-18, KJV:  17 Now the Lord is that Spirit:  and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.  18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC