(09/30/2019) Fully Communicating Human Potential?

A depiction of Jesus Christ and Nicodemus.

 

Today, reply is on death and the character of symbols we see that are used to communicate Christian beliefs and sacred knowledge. Christian belief is far from being morbid and death-centered. When speaking to the things of divinity, mankind must regard elements that are invisible, unseen, and without material form because they consist of Spirit. The separations for man and beast center primarily in their consciousness and self-will (willpower) imparted from the makeup of GOD that is entirely of spirit (e.g., faith, holiness, righteousness, wisdom, wrath against sin). Human potential allows for mankind to display self-expression and self-government by behavior and conduct that are recognized as animal, human, or divine. Humans portray divinity where they serve as vessels containing divine spirit. Their use of such finite tools as language, law, mathematics, and carnal reason, make humans seem to be on a level of existence that is higher than that for animals. Properly understood, that mankind communicates among themselves regarding their own life process relative to the immortality and incorruptibility of divinity is the primary distinction between animals and mankind. Described as spiritual awareness, just as mankind has consciousness of mortality and its completion, there is knowledge of connection with a sovereign Creator as well as knowledge of duration for life through resurrection from the dead. Animals do not sorrow for sins and violations of sacred law, yet, as seen through the account of Noah and the flood, divinity holds animals accountable with mankind for transferring sin from the earth to the Sanctuary in heaven. Animals make no penance and do not repent; and they neither make a choice to embody Jesus Christ, nor do they acknowledge the atonement for sin offered mankind by the Son of the Highest. Where Solomon operating under the influence of the flesh, rather than the imparted, indwelling Holy Spirit, bewails the brevity, frustration, limited vision regarding future events, and vanity (i.e., the lack of sacred substance) within mankind), his initial mistaken conclusion is recorded within the holy writings: Ecclesiastes 3: 18-21, King James Version (KJV): 18 I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts. 19 For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. 20 All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. 21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth? One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

 

Why do Christians use the brutal execution of a guy as the symbol of their beliefs? Is it not a macabre symbol?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (1^st Corinthians 1: 18, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Bible Language About Spirit? (06/13/2018); The Loaves and Fishes (08/09/2016); Represented by The Cross? (03/08/2016); The Meaning not the Object (05/26/2015); Not Images Used in Worship? (09/14/2014); Death is a Divine Tool (09/15/2014); A Sleep and a Second Death (09/16/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, among many mature Christians, death is understood as a divine tool used to fashion life; therefore, reflecting on death does not generate feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, and revulsion. More important than death are forgiveness, divine love, and mercy in judgment that make visible the righteousness of GOD. However, these are sacred things that may only be fully communicated to mankind by using simple elements. Human potential as a creation of divinity allows the character, nature, and substance of mankind’s life process and makeup to be displayed through attitudes, behavior, emotions, and conduct that may be described as animal, human, or divine. In a given moment, some will display all three at the same time, resulting in confusion. The continuous communication of the Creator and the created has been corrupted and degraded through the operations of sin that oppose the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the universe. Sin promotes nonexistence, and a return to the conditions of chaos, confusion, and flux that were in place before the founding of heaven and earth. Sin contains and puts forth no spirit substance from the makeup of GOD, yet, sin may dominate consciousness and self-will (willpower) within created beings and living creatures. Where divinity makes an outreach to explain these things to mankind, ones usual way of thinking and speaking must undergo permanent change. The finite tools of intellect, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, and science are best fitted for exchanging academic information, for detailing secular knowledge, and for manipulating things that are material, political, and social. Relying on verbal communication or “word of mouth” is made to be graphic to be made memorable. The issues addressed by Christian belief and sacred knowledge are to be received as spirit content from the makeup of divinity (we say, revelation) whereby GOD becomes knowable, known, accessible, and approachable. Inseparable aspects of divinity are provided that include faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. These allow Christians to apprehend the realities of origins for mankind, his sphere of life, and the full extent of life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) imparted from the Creator; the elements of imagination, mind, and recall for fashioning and preserving information; and the sacred law, principles for relationships with GOD, eternal purposes, and the immutable and unchanging truth from divinity that serve as the reliable standards for all that have existence and life. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. James 1: 16-22, King James Version (KJV): 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: 20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. 21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

2. John 3: 1-7, KJV: 1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, 3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJ-iXt14nrg). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 11:56 AM, September 29, 2019 @ https://jeremyberg.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/jesus_nicodemus.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/30/2019) The Requirements for Relationship

Christ and Nicodemus

 

Today, reply is that the full presentation of Jesus Christ in the Scriptures to proclaim his work as the architect of salvation, chief shepherd, redeemer, and savior also must proclaim his work as divine avenger, high priest, sacred judge, and executioner in final judgment. Christ will speak with lawful authority, sacred knowledge, inarguable wisdom, and vision that reveals the content of eternity. The full transformation of mankind to exist as an immortal, incorruptible companion to the divine fullness (i.e., the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) requires that the living receive a fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from Deity. Through the ministries of Christ on earth and from heaven, those who are “born again” are granted opportunities to “grow up again” and become mature/ripe for harvest as the offspring of GOD, joint heirs with Christ, and the new creation. It is written: John 3: 11-13, King James Version (KJV): 11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? 13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

 

Did Jesus of Nazareth talk arrogantly?

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. (John 15:5-6 NIV)

Update: Arrogantly: characterized by or proceeding from arrogance, or a sense of superiority, self-importance, or entitlement: (www.dictionary.com)

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it. 10 For the stars of heaven and the constellations thereof shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine. 11 And I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible. I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir. Therefore I will shake the heavens, and the earth shall remove out of her place, in the wrath of the LORD of hosts, and in the day of his fierce anger. (Isaiah 13: 9-13, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Character of GOD (06/27/2019); Tested By Secular People (06/05/2019); Baptism Is Not DIY (05/28/2019); What Divine Salvation Requires (05/15/2018); Firstborn Of Every Creature (05/09/2018); Redemption Through Ordinary Flesh? (04/20/2017); The Firstborn of GOD (01/02/2017); A Personal Relationship? (04/03/2014); GOD Everywhere? (04/04/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, Christ is most to be recognized among men through his acknowledgment of the Father along with his obedience, respect, and reverence. Redemption and salvation from sin are secured by mankind having an eternal and unbreakable relationship with divinity, who has appeared on the earth as Jesus Christ using the forms and process of human flesh (we say, the Incarnation). The character, makeup imparted from GOD, and divine fullness of Christ must be discerned and recognized through such elements as the operations of divine law, sacred promise, prophecy, unselfish service, and suffering. Inseparable aspects of divinity must appear within Christ as both the Son of Man and Son of GOD that include balance, the distance and impartiality that establish authority as authentic, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Christ is also to be recognized in the absence of brawling, cheap talk, covetousness, deceit, envy, politics, self-promotion, slander, and violence. Consider again the following from the Bible:

1. Psalms 40: 4-8, King James Version (KJV): 4 Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. 5 Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. 6 Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required. 7 Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, 8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

2. Isaiah 28: 14-19, KJV: 14 Wherefore hear the word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem. 15 Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves: 16 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. 17 Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place. 18 And your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your agreement with hell shall not stand; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down by it. 19 From the time that it goeth forth it shall take you: for morning by morning shall it pass over, by day and by night: and it shall be a vexation only to understand the report.

3. John 7: 16-18, KJV: 16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

4. 2^nd John 1: 7-10, KJV: 7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. John 7: 37-46, KJV: 37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. 39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) 40 Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet. 41 Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee? 42 Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was? 43 So there was a division among the people because of him. 44 And some of them would have taken him; but no man laid hands on him. 45 Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him? 46 The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 2:58 AM, June 30, 2019 @ https://image.slidesharecdn.com/lent2-questioninggod-140310070456-phpapp02/95/lent-2-questioning-god-12-638.jpg?cb=1394435214

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/28/2019) Baptism Is Not DIY

 

Today, reply is on baptism as a sacred practice (sacrament) within the church; having authority to approve, assess (judge), and witness to the sacred essence of ones own faith; and ministering the things from GOD to oneself. Redemption and the removal of sin from the life are only through blood and the atonement made by Jesus Christ as High Priest. Neither washing with water nor fire may substitute. Sinners can not accomplish the establishment of their own new life through human self-will and finite willpower. As developing Christians they receive a new life wherein they are dead to sin and have ongoing fellowship with divinity and those who are godly. Even so, there are those in the church who operate displaying ambition, covetousness, exaggerated pride, self-sufficiency, and self-will along with desire for unmerited authority and power. Properly understood, Christian belief focuses on acts of divine prerogative and sovereign will completed by divinity on behalf of created beings and living creatures. Thus, there are multiple sacred works that appear within the many communities of faith that are to be carried out and witnessed by those who are anointed, consecrated, ordained, and sanctified. Included are exorcism, healing, laying on of hands, preaching, prophecy, sacred events (miracles), sacrifice, speaking in tongues, teaching, and witness. It is written: Matthew 20: 20-28, King James Version (KJV): 20 Then came to him the mother of Zebedee’s children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. 21 And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. 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. 24 And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren. 25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Spirituality and Religion who uses the ID “Dennis Sagt” (Level 7 with 41,282 points, a member since April 06, 2010) posted the following:

 

Why can’t I baptize myself?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. (Ezekiel 36: 25-27, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Offering Yourself To Christ? (12/27/2018); Baptism, Rebirth, and Resurrection (09/18/2018); Believers Must Become “Ripe” (09/02/2018); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); Starting A New Life? (11/21/2017); Caution! Work In Progress (10/19/2017); Becoming Joined To GOD (10/13/2017); Baptism Pools For Rebirth? (07/19/2017)

 

“Dennis Sagt”, baptism is not a matter of changing ones own lifestyle by breaking bad habits, by pursuing self-improvement, or getting attention through self-promotion. Among Christian believers, water and fire baptism must be acknowledged and received as gifts provided from divinity because multiple aspects of eternal purpose that may be completed by GOD only are to be actualized and fulfilled. Sinners who turn to GOD in repentance must undergo the death and burial of their own inborn spirit, so to speak, and are to display a fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit, word) imparted from the makeup of GOD. Inseparable aspects of divinity should appear that will operate as divine DNA, the seed of GOD. Those containing divine seed are “born again,” must “grow up again,” and must become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing. Meanwhile, developing Christian believers are edified and nourished through continuous works of rebirth, discovery, gradual growth, unselfish service, sacred study, and suffering. While still living on the earth, believers exist as sons and daughters of GOD, the offspring of divinity, joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, and the new creation.

As a fruit and product from the workings of active presence, Christians are to provide a visible image of GOD (we say, Christ-likeness) upon the earth. All are to manifest sacred substance such as faith, forbearance, gratitude, holiness, humility, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, praise, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Romans 6: 3-6, King James Version (KJV): 3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

2. John 5: 28-29, KJV: 28 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29 And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.

3. John 3: 1-12, KJV: 1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. 9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? 10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? 11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 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.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 10:41 AM, May 27, 2019 @ https://redeeminggod.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/water_baptism.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(12/31/2018) Ego, Pride and Self-awareness

 

Today, New Year’s Eve and the final day of 2018, reply is on how the present character and process of Creation is contrary to the makeup, nature, and substance of divinity. Conflict, contention, division and opposition are more the product of lust and striving within the flesh that continue the conditions of chaos, confusion, and flux that were in place before the founding of heaven and earth. Thus, it is written: James 3: 13-18, King James Version (KJV): 13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum using the ID “Gardyloo” (Level 2 with 445 points, a member since June 23, 2018) posted the following:

 

Christians say they have different understanding because of our egos interfering with the spirit. Why is the spirit weaker than our egoes?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: If they shall confess their iniquity, and the iniquity of their fathers, with their trespass which they trespassed against me, and that also they have walked contrary unto me; And that I also have walked contrary unto them, and have brought them into the land of their enemies; if then their uncircumcised hearts be humbled, and they then accept of the punishment of their iniquity: Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land. The land also shall be left of them, and shall enjoy her sabbaths, while she lieth desolate without them: and they shall accept of the punishment of their iniquity: because, even because they despised my judgments, and because their soul abhorred my statutes. And yet for all that, when they be in the land of their enemies, I will not cast them away, neither will I abhor them, to destroy them utterly, and to break my covenant with them: for I am the LORD their God. But I will for their sakes remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought forth out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the heathen, that I might be their God: I am the LORD. (Leviticus 26: 40-45, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Offering Yourself To Christ? (12/27/2018); Appetite and Human Sexuality? (10/19/2018); Holy Boldness and Humility (10/04/2018); And There Was War? (06/12/2018); Self-Will And Christian Integrity (06/11/2018); Whoso Keepeth His Word (03/09/2018); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018)

 

“Gardyloo”, here are some thoughts that may not be familiar to you. In Christian belief, the operations of sin within mankind have rendered the Creation of GOD dependent upon elements for existence that are not responsive to divine will. The character, nature, process and substance of created beings and living creatures now are directed to aspects of consciousness and self-will (we also say, the exercise of willpower) in agreement with laws, opportunity, possibilities and principles that are primarily carnal, material, social, and temporal. By operating in accordance with mechanical and natural law, the living surrender apprehension, dominion, and ownership of things that are inseparable aspects of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, sacred personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

In the same way intellect, logic and science, critical thinking, or academic and secular knowledge do not eliminate appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), or the features of emotion/mind (e.g., anger, desire, fear, imagination, recall), our finite human tools and traits such as pride, self-awareness, and self-importance do not provide the mastery and sacred knowledge important to realizing a healthy and satisfying ongoing relationship with GOD. Authentic and genuine humanity is required that displays such features as accountability, balance, commitment, completeness, consistency, godliness, integrity, maturity, sobriety, and stability. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. John 3: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. 4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

2. John 1: 11-13, KJV: 11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12 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: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

3. 2^nd Timothy 1: 7, KJV: 7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 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.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/11/2018) Atheists And The Word?

 

Today, the reply is on why the Scriptures are held to be difficult and offensive among some atheists and disbelievers. For developing Christian believers the holy writings are challenging because the Scriptures also should be thought of and dealt with as an appearance and manifestation of divinity that is simple yet profound. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Why do atheists hate the Word of the Lord?

Atheists claim to follow reason, yet they ignore reason when it comes to the fact that God exists and Jesus died for everyone’s sins. The Bible says that God exists, so it must be true, otherwise why would millions of freedom loving Christians follow Christ so much?

Morality comes directly from Christianity, through the teachings of Jesus. Yet atheists deny morality in favour of drugs, unmarried sex, homosexuality, murder, and other things. If anything, Atheists have rejected God in favour of immorality, so that they can feel “free” (which they obviously aren’t, since God loves each and everyone of us, and God gave us morals).

Why don’t they want moral Christians to tell them how to live your lives in a better way? Why don’t they want moral Christians to establish God’s Rule in politics?

What is it about morality that offends them? What is it about the better way that moral Christians offer them that offends them?

Why are they so delusional? Why do they hate morality so much? Why do they wish death on we the faithful?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? (John 3: 1-12, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Witness of Oceans (06/28/2018); Divine Knowledge And Wisdom (06/24/2018); Bible Language About Spirit? (06/13/2018); Condemned By The Bible? (06/08/2018); Life And Divine Purpose (05/04/2018); Relying on Sacred “Evidence” (11/20/2017); Bible and Spirit (04/26/2014); Personality? (04/27/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, you may find this godly counsel: Many resent being labeled as “sinners” and regarded as somehow deficient because they have made no adult or mature study of the Bible, and because they lack both the sacred knowledge and rebirth as a vessel of Spirit that the holy writings are intended to nourish. Atheists refuse to accept that mankind on the earth is to be permanently changed and transformed by actions and operations of divine fullness (we say, Deity; the GODhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Dismissing the truth of GOD as an aspect of human experience past, present and future, such thinkers can not correctly apprehend the fullness of Creation, the range of divine possibilities displayed and shared by mankind, and the integrity mankind is to maintain in order to exist as more than a brute beast or savage animal.

The Scriptures gradually become open to those who acknowledge themselves capable of being in a continuing relationship with GOD as vessels who have received divine substance. Through water baptism (i.e., the death, burial, and resurrection of ones inborn spirit), a sinner becomes “born again” and receives a fresh endowment of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of Deity. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Those who are born again must “grow up again” and become mature as the offspring and heirs of GOD living on the earth until the Advent of Jesus Christ (we also say, his appearing; the harvest; the Rapture; the Second Coming). amenable to the existence, process, and eternal purposes of GOD.

Many fail to receive blessing by the Scriptures because what the seek is by and from the flesh. The finite tools of human imagination, intellect, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, secular knowledge and science cannot replace or surpass the provision of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. In the same way a person’s own consciousness, thoughts and self-will are important along with their material and physical body to their having or feeling completeness, the spirit aspect within the living also is important to our existing as complete and whole. Developing believers will be edified and grow in their relationship with divinity by practicing discernment, discovery, fellowship with other believers, prayer, regular study of the Scriptures, and unselfish service. Like others on the earth, believers may experience times of disappointment, hardship, reversals, sorrow, and suffering. While there are many assurances and promises from GOD written in the Scriptures that comfort a believer, there also are calls to duty, exhortations, urging and warnings intended to spark immediate action, godliness, obedience, and vigilance.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

 

 

(06/17/2018) Christ Rejected By Pharisees?

James Tissot:  The Pharisee and Publican

 

Today, reply is on the rejection of Jesus Christ by the religious establishment of his day, and the  acceptance of Jesus by publicans and sinners.  The account of Nicodemus coming to Christ after dark (so he would not be seen or recognized in public) is one of the clearest depictions of spiritual need among the elders of Israel.  Nicodemus could not comprehend the simple ideas that (1.) your inborn spirit must die, be buried, and resurrected from death by GOD, so to speak; and (2.)  the original endowment of ones inner spirit must be refreshed with spirit content imparted from the makeup of the Creator:  You must be born again.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 6 with 15,514 points a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:

 

Why did the pharisees reject Jesus while the tax collectors accepted him?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith:  these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.  Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.  Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness.  Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,  And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.  Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.  Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.  Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?  (Matthew 23:  23-33, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Bible Language About Spirit? (06/13/2018); Why Spirit Displays Personhood (06/06/2018); Salvation By Good Works? (03/08/2018); The Law and The Prophets (03/07/2018); A Threat Against Judaism (07/17/2017); The Spirit and Prophecy (01/04/2017); The Cross and The Pharisees? (04/21/2016); The Golden Age? (01/10/2013); Translation, Please… (01/11/2013)
 

“Breakthrough”, it continues today that acceptance/rejection of Jesus as the Christ by the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Temple elders of his day can be explained by multiple factors that include ignorance of, and skepticism toward, the promises and prophecies recorded in the holy writings; commonly held ungodly cultural and social standards that resulted through captivity and exile; religious customs and traditions anchored by secular knowledge instead of sacred knowledge as well as spiritual confusion.  Jews serving as tax collectors and public officials were like what we  now would call an “independent contractor,” a “bounty hunter,” or a “re-po man.”  Because these men would add their own fees to the tax assessment, kick in the door, and were empowered to seize family members and property for payment, they were generally regarded as godless thieves, heartless traitors, and turncoats.  The effort to continue and defend the blessing of GOD bestowed by the Covenant Law and relationship granted to Moses saw the institutionalization of belief, and the entrenchment of a “religious establishment.”  The primary aspect of divinity revealed to mankind was held to be “the law and the prophets;” however, the gift of ministry by a sanctified priesthood that could make atonement through offerings and sacrifices came under a curse at the time of King Saul (Eli, Hophni, and Phinehas); and the gift of prophets was suspended at the time of Malachi some 400 years before the birth of Jesus.  The establishment insisted on the primacy of the law “without the prophets,” an approach that denied existence of the Holy Spirit and his gifts (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  Whether John the Baptist (who was filled with the Spirit while yet in his mother’s womb) was an authentic prophet from GOD was as much the matter of controversy as whether John himself was the expected Messiah.  More than the prophetic demonstrations seen through John and Jesus, the publicans and sinners were drawn to Jesus Christ by his doctrine, insights, and what they perceived as a genuine revelation of the character, makeup and substance of GOD.  Consider again, therefore, the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)   Luke 18:  10-14, King James Version (KJV):  10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.  11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.  12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.  13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.  14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other:  for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

(2.)  Luke 19:  1-10, KJV:  1 And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho.  2 And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.  3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.  4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him:  for he was to pass that way.  5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house.  6 And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.  7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.  8 And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord:  Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.  9 And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.  10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Luke 7:  37-50, KJV:  37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,  38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.  39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him:  for she is a sinner.  40 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.  41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors:  the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.  42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?  43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.  44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet:  but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.  45 Thou gavest me no kiss:  but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet.  46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint:  but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.  47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much:  but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.  48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.  49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?  50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(12/23/2015) Offspring of GOD?

Scripture points are shared on the intimate relationship of Christian believers as the offspring of GOD.  Divinity is known by word and spirit.  Apart from operations completed by the Spirit of GOD, the substance conveyed by human communication can only be carnal, material, and social.  With this in view, the language used by those outside of Christ to communicate concerning divinity and things of spirit, at best, is only suggestive, and does not provide accuracy, clarity, exactness, and precision.  More than simply agreement, bonding by blood, and covenant, the disciples of Jesus Christ become established in adoption through the Holy Spirit (also called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth), through sacred inheritance, and through new life as children of the Father in heaven.  Just as infants must pass through growing and learning to become mature, believers must become ripe to be harvested from the earth at the coming of Jesus, and made perfect for eternity through operations by GOD.  Consider again the following verses, and the discussion below:  Acts 17:  29-31, King James Version (KJV):  29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.  30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:  31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.  Also, Romans 8:  14-17, KJV:  14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.  15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.  16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:  17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.  1st John 4:  18-20, KJV:  18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear:  because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.  19 We love him, because he first loved us.  20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar:  for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Personal Relationship with Jesus: “It’s like that of a parent, dear… it resembles the relationship a child has with their loving parent.”?

I thought most people actually see and hear and hold their parents though???

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  We are of God:  he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.  Beloved, let us love one another:  for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.  He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.  In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.  Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.  Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.  No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.  Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.  (1st John 4:  6-13, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divinity Has Person? (05/19/2015); Knowing The Holy Spirit? (05/17/2015); Understanding Spiritual Growth? (03/13/2015); Babies Given A Second Life? (01/25/2015)

 

“Anonymous”, many Christian believers hold to the understandings generated by faith and the holy writings, that Deity participates in various relationships with created beings and living creatures upon multiple levels, and through different devices.  The language we are given regarding this aspect of life experience for those upon the earth includes “access”, “appearing”, “forgiveness”, “incarnation”, “inheritance”, “judgment”, “divine love,” “preeminence”, “rule”, “sanctification”, and “the expressed will of GOD.”  Just as infants and toddlers at first are totally dependent upon their parents for birth, cleansing, nourishment, and protection, every Christian first is helpless and dependent.  Also, just as a newborn baby must develop following a profound separation from all it has experienced and known within the mother’s womb, the born again believer must separate from the world system, and becoming increasingly independent and self-reliant as one having an endowment from GOD.  The believer receives deposits of spirit matter from the makeup of divinity (divine DNA, so to speak) as well as baptism and washing, death and rebirth, guidance and instruction.  Children do not have to acquire animal aspects of humanity by learning (e.g., appetite, instinct, intuition), yet, they must be guided into expressing love within stable relationships.  As children grow, they spend less and less time in the physical presence of their parents; and rely upon knowledge that is the internalization of feelings, images, thoughts, values, and words from their primary caretakers.  Consider again the following points from the Bible:

(1.)  John 3:  1-10, King James Version (KJV):  1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:  2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God:  for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.  3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.  4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.  8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth:  so is every one that is born of the Spirit.  9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?  10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?

(2.)   1st Peter 2:  1-5, KJV:  1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,  2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:  3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.  4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,  5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

(3.)  1st Peter 1:  7-9, KJV:  7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:  8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:  9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

Of course, there are many other verses here that should be carefully considered, correctly understood, and made a part of ones sacred knowledge.  (For example, (4.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  6-8, KJV:  6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:  7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)  8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(09/02/2015) Baptism, Then Communion

Scriptures on the meanings of water baptism and Communion are shared, today.  While baptism and sharing in the Lord’s Supper are often regarded as acts by adults expressing ones desire and willingness to be a member of a local church, infants and small children also may receive water baptism as an aspect of their inheritance (i.e., resources for life lawfully transferred by their living caretakers and parents as a bequest or gift provided on the basis of sacred commitment and duty).  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers using the ID “Miss Annon” (Level 2 with 619 points, a member since  June 13, 2010) posted the following:

 

What is the difference between a Communion and Baptism in the Catholic Church? Which one comes first? Thanks!?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:  And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat:  this is my body, which is broken for you:  this do in remembrance of me.  After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, this cup is the new testament in my blood:  this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.  For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.  Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.   But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.  For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.  For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.  For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.  But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.  (1st Corinthians 11:  23-32, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Eternal Life Not Afterlife? (08/11/2015); Becoming Ripe for Harvest? (07/03/2015); To Drink Holy Blood? (02/16/2015); A Formula for Baptism? (06/30/2014); The Bread of GOD (03/01/2014); Belief, Faith, and Proof (03/02/2014); Eat His Body, Drink His Blood (03/21/2013); Foolish For Not Believing? (03/22/2013)

 

“Miss Annon”, most Christian believers have been received as full members within the body of Christ (i.e., the collection of all who have ever lived upon the earth as set apart, sanctified and saved through the Son of GOD) by receiving water baptism, the same public act of cleansing and submission to the operations of GOD that John the Baptist performed for Jesus at the Jordan River.  In such baptism, the believer is to experience the death of their inborn spirit that is vulnerable to sin, and rebirth having fresh spirit content from the makeup of Deity.  Sin has not been created by GOD, has no divine content, yet, has direction, effect, and presence.  Sin may dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures.  Once “born again”, believers must “grow up again,” and become mature while enduring the same life challenges as all others upon the earth.  Through baptism, believers are endowed with inseparable divine substances that include faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  A new believer is valued by GOD as a new creation, will gradually become ripe (we say, perfected), and be harvested from the earth at the coming of Jesus in glory.  The new life of a believer centers in such activity as fellowship with experienced believers, gaining and sharing sacred knowledge (e.g., hearing sermons, preaching, studying the Bible), and prayer (e.g., confession, giving thanks, petition, praise) with unselfish service to GOD and to others.  The Lord’s Supper (also called, Communion) is a public act to endorse or ratify a covenant agreement with Deity, a realization of the ancient Passover feast as well as a shared meal to consume and internalize the flesh, and spirit of Jesus.  Through both these acts of acceptance, obedience, and submission, believers offer some of their highest expressions of contrition, love, respect, reverence, and solemn worship.  Here are some points from the Scriptures that also may be helpful:

(1.)  John 3:  1-5, King James Version (KJV):  1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:  2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God:  for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.  3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.  4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 2:  9-14, KJV:  9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.  10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit:  for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.  11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.  13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.  14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God:  for they are foolishness unto him:  neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

(3.)  John 6:  47-51, KJV:  47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.  48 I am that bread of life.  49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.  50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.  51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven:  if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever:  and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

(4.)  Luke 1:  53-55, KJV:  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.

(5.)  Luke 22:  15-20, KJV:  15 And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer:  16 For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.  17 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves:  18 For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.  19 And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you:  this do in remembrance of me.  20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

(6.)  1st Corinthians 5:  6-8, KJV:  6 Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?  7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:  8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

There is much more that could be said, and that must be correctly understood and spiritually taken into account.  (For example,  (7.)  2nd Corinthians 5:  17-21, KJV:  17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:  old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.  18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;  19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.  20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us:  we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.  21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.)  Even so, I trust this collection of verses will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/03/2015) The Resurrection of Jesus Acknowledged?

Scriptures are shared to clarify the Gospel (we say, good news) along with the various memorials, and annual observances for the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.  Today, Good Friday, is the day designated for remembrance of the crucifixion.  Many cultural and social customs and traditions are now attached to the sacred events (we say, miracles) of judgment, death, and resurrection that were demonstrated through Jesus Christ.  Most of the apostles and disciples with him at their camp on the Mount of Olives went into hiding (fearing their own arrest), were not present at the crucifixion, did not expect Jesus to be detained or punished, and therefore doubted the reports of the Lord having been killed.  However, one of the women who had witnessed the execution also discovered the empty tomb, saw the Master alive, and proclaimed to the others, He is risen!  The Savior was not seen following his arrest, death, and temporary burial until the first day of the week, Sunday.  Combined hours from the four days (Thursday to Sunday) account for the “three days and nights in the grave” as written in prophecy.  When the good news was announced, many continued to be uncertain, despite Jesus having carefully explained on many occasions the events that were to occur in fulfillment of the holy writings.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using as ID “israel” (a member since October 25, 2014, with 7 points at Level 1) posted the following subtle (i.e., barely visible; disguised; having multiple hidden shifts in meaning and value) thrust:

 

Why do Christians celebrate crucifixion on Easter?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest,  And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more:  (For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart:  And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake:)  But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,  To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,  And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.  See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven:  Whose voice then shook the earth:  but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven.  And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.  Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:  For our God is a consuming fire.  (Hebrews 12:  18-29, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Crimes Christ Crucified For? (11/07/2014); Both Lost and Found? (11/08/2014); Resurrection from the Dead? (04/23/2014); Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); Resurrection Sunday (04/19/2014); Jesus Scourged (04/05/2014); Brothers, Not Equals (04/06/2014); The Judges Who Condemned Jesus? (01/17/2014); About the Second Coming? (01/18/2014); Jesus Arose Bodily (12/24/2013); Thanking and Blaming GOD (12/25/2013); GOD Angry With Us? (12/08/2013); So We Could Have Life? (12/09/2013)

 

“israel”, you appear to be one of those who has some spiritual confusion regarding Christian beliefs.  The resurrection of Jesus is to be continuously acknowledged, along with the establishment of spiritual gifts for mankind.  In place of celebration and parties, atonement, repentance, sorrow for sin, and escape from condemnation are the focus, rather than such events as the end of Winter, the beginning of Spring, fertility and nature symbolized by a bunny, church attendance, and family reunion.  Please consider the following:

(1.)  Acts 2:  22-24, KJV:  22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:  23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:  24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death:  because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

(2.)  Acts 17:  24-32, KJV:  24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;  25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;  26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:  28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.  29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.  30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:  31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.  32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked:  and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter.

(3.)  1st Corinthians 15:  12-14, KJV:  12 Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead?  13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:  14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.

(4.)  1st Corinthians 15:  21-26, KJV:  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.  23 But every man in his own order:  Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.  24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.  25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.  26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  For example, (5.)  John 3:  1-12, KJV:  There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:  2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God:  for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.  3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.  4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.  8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth:  so is every one that is born of the Spirit.  9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?  10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?  11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.  12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/25/2015) Babies Given A Second Life?

Baptism for babies, duty to continue and preserve covenant, and responsible parenting are topics, today.  For many Christian families hope for the future, a well-defined, disciplined, godly lifestyle, shared purpose, and the spiritual visions once passed down from their pioneers are now being refused by those embracing popular culture with its emphasis upon independence, and living for oneself.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Should Speech Hurt” (Level 7 with 27,153 points, a member since October 03, 2012) posted the following:

 

Religion & Spirituality: What good does it do to baptize a baby?

The baby isn’t making the choice to dedicate its life to God.

Why would God even care about an act done to it, by another person?

My mom had me baptized as a baby, and I don’t even remember it. I certainly didn’t choose to have my head sprinkled with water.

So why would God want it done and why would he possibly reject a baby who died without experiencing this ritual?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:  The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God:  for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.  Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.  Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?  Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.  The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth:  so is every one that is born of the Spirit.  Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?  Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?  (John 3:  1-10, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Sin Covered By Salvation? (12/28/2014); Mortality Is Required Because of Sin (12/29/2014); Sprinkled, Immersed, Named? (02/01/2014); Forgiveness Through GOD? (02/02/2014); Covenants and Relationships (01/29/2014); Salvation is Conditional? (01/30/2014); Origin of Baptism? (06/22/2013); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013)

 

“Should Speech Hurt”, here are a few points shared among those who are born again through Jesus Christ:

(1.)  The parental choice to baptize ones children is based upon multiple aspects of their commitment to acknowledge and provide the best for their child including the purest elements within their own emotional, psychological, and spiritual makeup.  Just as ones life and ones love are shared expressed as spiritual conviction, ones duty, ones hope, and ones comprehension of divine revelation must be part of the inheritance parents provide to their offspring.

(2.)  As in circumcision, through their baptism children are entered into the covenants of their family line and parents, and are instructed, nourished, and prepared to continue the divine relationships established for their own benefit, and for that of future generations.  Today, many are unwilling to be accountable to their ancestors and their forerunners; and effectively are the last of their line.  Marriage is despised, abortion is practiced, and many intend to have no offspring.  For such persons concepts like “family name” (we say, reputation), honor, and “inheritance” are often cast only in terms of belongings, disease or illness, money, and property.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  The sacred knowledge that explains baptism to Christian believers must be received through operations of their indwelling Spirit from Christ.  The child or adult who is “born again” undergoes a permanent change in their spirit content.  Their inborn spirit “dies”, is buried, and a rebirth occurs from a fresh deposit of substance from the makeup of GOD.  The believer must become a vessel for aspects of divinity such as faith, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, and love.  What you call a “ritual” is a standard or traditionally acceptable act witnessed by the community of believers that authenticates various unseen operations from Deity.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC