(08/07/2020) Pure Religion And Undefiled

 

Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.   James 1: 27, King James Version (KJV)

 

 

Today, reply is on the nature and process of Christian belief and practice appearing as overly conservative, self-centered, and asocial.  Properly discerned and acknowledged, the goals of Christian belief do not include manipulating our family members and neighbors, oppressing and persecuting others, self-promotion, or seeking vainglory for oneself.  Believers become sanctified (i.e., set apart for sacred service on the basis of their divine content) through the operations of divinity within their awareness, desire, intent, and self-will (willpower).  Christians are those who were sinners that entered into new lives of repentance, rebirth, and the resurrection life provided by divinity in Jesus Christ.  Often asking oneself, Am I worthy?, developing and mature Christian believers pursue lives of balance, consistency, and stability that will resemble, reflect, and reveal the character, likeness, and nature of Jesus Christ while also accomplishing the goal of providing unselfish service to others.  In addition to contemplation, confession, listening, praise, prayer and prophecy, believers are to provide demonstrations, evangelism, guidance, sacred practice, testimonies, and witness in ongoing judgment.  Focusing always on Jesus, his followers are to impart godliness, lovingkindness, wisdom and wrath against sin.  It is written:  John 6: 63-69, King James Version (KJV):  63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing:  the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.  64 But there are some of you that believe not.  For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.  65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.  66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.  67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?  68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.  69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.  The fighter at the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality using the ID “shoeshopper3” (Level 3 with 1,850 points) posted the following:

 

 

 

Why does Christianity say that Christians are not supposed to do anything but stay at home, work, read the bible, and go to church?

 

 

 

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD?  Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily:  and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.  Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am.  If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day:  And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones:  and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.  (Isaiah 58: 5-11, KJV)

 

 

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Living Your Best Life? (07/05/2020); The Ones Called “Sheep” (05/29/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); Demonstrating Dependence on GOD (04/20/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); On Behalf Of Others (03/26/2020); Displaying A “Christian Personality”? (04/19/2019); Purity For Sacred Truth (12/17/2018)

 

 

 

“shoeshopper3”, among Christian believers preparing to receive Jesus Christ at his appearing to harvest the earth of those belonging to his kingdom the teachings on sanctification and separation from the world continue to be expressed in the lifestyles and daily routines of those acknowledging divinity.  As spirit, GOD may exist within the consciousness and will (willpower) of created beings and living creatures.  Thus, how Christians think of others and of themselves are influenced by powerful ideas that speak to the presence of GOD in
the life.  Included are the understanding that Christians receive the
life of Jesus Christ within their own makeup through both his baptism
and his resurrection.  The Christian is the new creation that is to labor on the earth as part of the divine transformation of mankind to exist as immortal and incorruptible.  Aspects of the full divine operation are admonition, atonement, forgiveness, rebirth, reconciliation, redemption, repentance, and salvation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Chris Tomlin:

 

(1.)  Proverbs 4: 7, King James Version (KJV):  7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom:  and with all thy getting get understanding.

 

(2.)  John 17: 13-21, KJV:  13 And now come I to thee; and these things I
speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.  14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.  16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  17 Sanctify them through thy truth:  thy word is truth.  18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.  19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.  20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;  21 That they all
may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. 22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

 

(3.)  1^st John 2: 15-16, KJV:  15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

 

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually
apprehended.  (For example, Is He Worthy? (4.) 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkRiYsTN7KY.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

 

Image downloaded 5:58 PM, August 06, 2020 @
https://mballestero.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_2784.jpg

 

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

 

(10/17/2018) Watching The Science Channel?

Education, a stained glass window by Louis Comfort Tiffany, depicts Science (personified by Devotion, Labor, Truth, Research, and Intuition) and Religion (personified by Purity, Faith, Hope, Reverence, and Inspiration) in harmony, presided over by Love. (see reference below)

 

Today, reply is on science, sin, and spiritual confusion.  Given that broadcast television uses many of the same materials, standards, and production values for educational programs that also are used for features emphasizing amusement, entertainment, hilarity, and levity, Christian believers are to be discerning, thoughtful, and vigilant as TV viewers, also. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Is it a sin for a Christian to watch the science channel?

Science seems cool. Maybe I should major in a science major or Heath care

 

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

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Gift Of GOD (10/15/2018); Comparing Sacred and Secular (03/15/2018); The Option of Atheism (02/11/2018); Mythology Opposes Christian Belief (01/08/2018); Wisdom In A Mystery (11/22/2017); Idolatry — Exalting Human Devices? (09/21/2017); Growth Is Through Edification (06/20/2017); Double Standard? (10/12/2012); Family and Romance (10/13/2012)

 

“Anonymous”, here are some points that may be helpful:

1. Where education and inquiry are balanced, complete, and properly structured they do not transgress divine law, or become a source of spiritual confusion.

2. Mankind is not condemned by examining, measuring, or reordering aspects of their own sphere of life. Even so, errors that deny the divine foundation and sacred origins of mankind favor nonexistence and a return to the conditions of chaos and flux that were in place as preexistence.

3. Sin is not rational, is self-destructive, and opposes the continued existence of sacred law, the Lawgiver, and the Creation that has been put forth as an expression of divine order.

4. Developing Christian believers are to exist as the new creation from Jesus Christ, and are to continually display spirit substance from the makeup of divinity. Included should be faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, integrity, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

5. The mechanical, natural, and spiritual life processes for created beings and living creatures on the earth all include directing ones awareness and self-will (we say, willpower) for discovery, evaluating and using information, gradual growth, learning, focused practice, and achieving stability.

6. Many are quick to accept as truth in place of sacred knowledge untested assumptions, conclusions from carnal reasoning that are intended as assurances, secular knowledge, opinions, and speculation.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st John 3: 4, King James Version (KJV): 4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.

(2.) Proverbs 24: 9, KJV: 9 The thought of foolishness is sin: and the scorner is an abomination to men.

(3.) Romans 14: 23, KJV: 23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

(4.) Colossians 2: 6-9, KJV: 6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

 

The image, Education, by Louis Comfort Tiffany, was downloaded from the article by Rachel E. Gross, Do Science and Religion Conflict? 11: 20 AM, 10/17/2018 from the Slate Internet Site http://www.slate.com/articles/health_and_science/science/2015/10/highly_religious_people_see_little_conflict_with_science.html

(09/14/2018) Claiming To Know GOD?

 

Today, reply is on language used by Christian believers declaring that they “know” GOD. As those “born again,” Christians are to speak and proclaim the teachings of Jesus, rather than their own opinions along with divine assurances that have been provided as faith, hope, and love. Many today seem to confuse “knowing about” GOD with knowing GOD. Where there is genuine relationship, accountability, commitment, and adding value (we say, giving love) also should appear. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Serve The Servants” (Level 7 with 36,411 points, a member since November 20, 2010) posted the following:

 

Why do people claim that they know God when nobody alive has met him?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me. (Job 19: 25-27, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); Confessing Your Own Salvation? (03/02/2018); Certainty, Conviction and Faith (01/05/2018); About Using “Sacred Logic” (11/19/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); Knowing GOD and Sin? (02/03/2017); How To Know GOD? (12/12/2016); Knowing? (05/24/2015)

 

“Serve The Servants”, GOD is ever-present, however, men are not ever-aware. Where religion and spiritual convictions are concerned, many are not careful as they use language to communicate and express their own feelings and thoughts, and will mistakenly respond to the intentions, messages, and understandings shared by others. Thus, as with your use of “know”, here, ones discussion may generate or result in spiritual confusion, for there can be multiple definitions and meanings that advance many very different statements and beliefs. For example, “to know” is to have data, facts, information, and knowledge. “To know” is to be determined, to be resolute, and to have a “made up mind.” When some say “I know…” they expect the hearer to acknowledge their unspoken words too (e.g., “more than you,” “in part;” or “sometimes/this time”). Also, “to know” is to be sure and to have certainty, rather than to apply unsupported information (i.e., assume), guess, speculate, or merely “think so.” “To know by faith” or on the basis of ones expectation and trust (we say, “to hope”) is not a matter of foretelling events or reading the thoughts of others; rather, it is matter of completing and conforming to a fixed pattern or sequence (e.g., we can predict, after ABCD, XYZ is coming, even where there is some delay like HIJK). Going further, “to know” another person is to regularly communicate, exchange, have direct contact, interact, and share with them (we say, to be in a continuous or perhaps even “intimate” relationship).

Applying “sacred knowledge” in place of “secular knowledge,” Christian believers will increasingly operate having a consciousness of divine fullness (we say, the “active presence” who appears as the person of GOD; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit; the Godhead). The primary goals for sinners who choose to become mature Christians are to have their character, makeup, and spirit substance become permanently changed through operations by the Spirit of GOD. Finite human consciousness, desire, and self-will may be dominated by such carnal elements as appetite, sensation, and emotion along with sin. Sin is no ordinary object or thing created by GOD or mankind, and can not be eliminated by simple acts of destruction, reversal, or violence. Sin opposes the continued existence of sacred law, the Creator is who both the lawgiver and judge, and the platforms of divine order throughout the universe.

Christians only become Christlike as they receive, embody, and display the same spirit that has been manifest on the earth within Jesus Christ. Water baptism to become a “new creation” through Christ depicts the death, burial, and resurrection from the dead by ones inborn spirit. A sinner becomes a vessel of divine DNA, so to speak, and is “born again.” By receiving fresh endowments of “life essence” (we also say, breath; spirit; word) the sinner is transformed to “grow up again” as an offspring and heir of divinity with Jesus. Inseparable aspects of the divine makeup are imparted that include faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, “oneness” without “sameness”, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, GOD reveals divinity through spirit, and becomes knowable, known, accessible, and approachable through shared personhood and sacred truth. A developing believer is built up (edification) through divine process that includes discovery, gradual growth, enduring hardship, fellowship with other believers, praise, prayer, prophecy, regular study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and suffering.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/07/2018) Commitment To The Brand?

The image advocates religious neutrality in the workplace

 

Today, reply is on ethics and the obligations of employees to their employer regarding the expression and practice of their spiritual beliefs both in and outside of the workplace.  Becoming selected and hired by a going enterprise is more than a matter of selling oneself and being paid to labor; “getting a job” means entering a relationship to obtain benefits and resources for ones life.  In modern work settings—agricultural, financial, government, industrial, medical, theatrical—every employee is required to exercise restraint, and to help maintain a positive work atmosphere free of conflicts based on age, arbitrary differences, ethnic and national origin, personal traits (e.g., hair color, height, weight), religious beliefs, and their concerns for developing their own career or business.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shown) posted the following in the Religion and Spirituality section:

 

Did you know my company made a rule outlawing religious artifacts and praying at our work?
They states we can pray after work or on a lunch break in private.The company has no right to tell my conservative brothers and sisters when and where to pray!!! First amendment!

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.  (Proverbs 20:  11, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Relationship As Servant (06/03/2018); Blessed In Our Deeds (05/29/2018); Duties of a Christian? (03/13/2018); Called To Be Servants? (11/25/2015); It Comes With the Job? (01/11/2015); Religious Bosses? (07/08/2014); On Religious Items (08/29/2012); On Cults (08/30/2012)

 

“Anonymous”, here are some points on belief, conscience, personal integrity, and grace that may be helpful: 

Currently, when a worker accepts a position with a firm, they are expected to acknowledge that they are also a representative of the company Brand.  In the same way you are recognized and respected as a legitimate agent and representative who embodies the firm, and provides its “human face” to the public during work hours and in the workplace, a worker’s behavior and conduct before the public in non-work settings also will influence how the firm is evaluated, respected, and supported.  The relationship between employee and employer continues when you are in the public arena on the basis of ethics, principles, purposes, and standards, and is not simply a matter of consumer products and services.  Many young workers are not aware of this, and feel strongly that, once they complete their shift at work, they can dismiss, ignore, and openly oppose all the demands and rules of their employer, and their workplace. 

The covenant (i.e., the formal, legal agreement; the verbal or written contract) between an employee and an employer should be understood as projecting beyond the specifics of their job description, their to-do list, or a flow chart displaying their daily duties.  A workplace is a social setting having all the same needs for fiscal soundness, health care, hygiene, nourishment, law enforcement, and crisis management as those of a small town.  A workplace can include those from diverse backgrounds, marital status, multiple knowledge and skill sets as well as those having different levels of job experience, personal ambition, commitment to the company mission statement, and devotion to  the discipline/field, to say nothing of differences among its workers for their levels of emotional, psychological, and spiritual maturity.

Both employers and their workers also are expected to acknowledge a set of unspoken assumptions and conditions (we say, adopt a common-sense understanding; accept as binding points that are logically consistent and interdependent with those of their formal agreement).  Thus, knowing there is a company issued uniform, unless it is an aspect of his job, a new employee will not appear on his first day of work wearing logos of the competitor, and expect to continue in the workplace without challenge, comments that may be negative, and conflict.  A commitment to address and satisfy one another’s needs must come into view, and must develop over time establishing such features as continuity, flow, mutual accountability, shared identity, respect, job satisfaction, and trust.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 6:  16, King James Version (KJV):  16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

(2.)  Romans 6:  8-14, KJV:  8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:  9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.  10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once:  but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.  11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.  12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.  13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin:  but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.  14 For sin shall not have dominion over you:  for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

(3.)  2nd Corinthians 4:  17-18, KJV:  17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;  18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen:  for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

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

 

(04/05/2018) Christianity Is A Relationship

 

Today, reply is shared presenting Christianity as an intimate ongoing relationship with divinity, rather than a logical construct, a philosophy, a religion, or a set of ethnic and cultural traditions.  Christian commitment and belief are expressed using covenant promises, inheritance, interpersonal and family process as well as acts of choice, volition and self-will, dominion (authority; rule; self-government), and leadership.  Adam is the first to be called a “son of GOD.”  Abraham was called “the Friend of GOD;” and the figure of Moses demonstrates and exemplifies the possibilities for communication, exchange, and interaction (we say, continuing relationship) with divinity through imparted personhood, joining through shared spirit substance, and shared eternal purpose.  The blessing of oneness without sameness that exists among the aspects of divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) was made actual, approachable, and knowable using flesh and blood through the Incarnation (the sacred operations whereby divinity was made visible in authentic humanity as Jesus Christ; included were birth, death, ministry, resurrection, and ascension).  Moses served as more than simply a king, or even a high priest; Moses was anointed as a prophet and spokesperson for GOD and for his covenant people, Israel.  Similarly, Christ appeared as more than another king over Israel; he came as Messiah, Redeemer, Savior, and The Anointed One.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

 

Why do religious people claim that they know GOD on a personal level?

It makes no sense. Welcome to religion. Does not compute.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And it came to pass, as Moses entered into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended, and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and the LORD talked with Moses.  And all the people saw the cloudy pillar stand at the tabernacle door:  and all the people rose up and worshipped, every man in his tent door.  And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp:  but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.  And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people:  and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight.  Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight:  and consider that this nation is thy people.  And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.  And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.  For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.   And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken:  for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.  And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.  And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.  And he said, Thou canst not see my face:  for there shall no man see me, and live.  (Exodus 33:  9-20, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); “I Never Knew You” (03/23/2018); Whoso Keepeth His Word (03/09/2018); Offspring of GOD? (12/23/2015); Face to Face Like Moses? (01/28/2014); Faith not Politics? (12/02/2014); Ye Are Not In The Flesh (12/03/2014); Covenants and Relationships (01/29/2014); Salvation is Conditional? (01/30/2014)

“Anonymous”, Billy Graham shared the truth that Christianity is not a “religion”, it is a “relationship”.  Relationships that supply the things necessary for life and survival (even among family) all require balance, acknowledging accountability, commitment, discovery, enthusiasm, gradual growth, gratitude, uninterrupted respect, and stability.  For mature Christians, the operations of GOD are acknowledged as revelation and information-sharing that establishes the personhood and active presence of divinity.  GOD must be experienced as more than an academic abstraction, a hypothetical construct, and a feature from finite human intelligence and imagination.  The Creator appears (we say, is embodied; incarnate; manifest) within divine law; sacred knowledge; sacramental practices (e.g., baptism, confession, marriage, penance); the living body of believers (we say, the church); and the imparted, indwelling Holy Spirit.  This is possible because GOD is the fullness of divine spirit (we say, breath, life essence, sovereign will, Word).  Disbelievers and sinners are challenged to repent (i.e., willingly turn away) from the operations of sin in their lives, and “get to know GOD” through rebirth, and new life.  Once a person’s inborn spirit dies, is buried, and they are “raised from the dead,” so to speak, they receive a fresh endowment of spirit (divine DNA) from the makeup of GOD that allows them to exist as offspring (sons and daughters), joint heirs, and the new creation through Jesus Christ.  Those “born again” must “grow up again,” and become mature while living on the earth.  In the same way (even with best friends) no one ever knows another person’s every private feeling or thought, yet, they have high levels of affection and trust, specific expectations, and shared goals, so it is for those who follow Jesus Christ.  A sanctifying relationship develops through activity that includes praise, prayer, separation from secular things for dedicated service, sacrifice and unselfish giving.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Galatians 2:  20, King James Version (KJV):  20 I am crucified with Christ:  nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:  and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

(2.)  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.

(3.)  Romans 6:  3-7, 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.  7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Philippians 3:  7-14, KJV:  7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.  8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord:  for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,  9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:  10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;  11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.  12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect:  but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.  13 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,  14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/29/2018) Fear of the Unknown

 

Today, reply is on the excellence of Christian relationship with eternal divinity over the finite practices of temporal religion.  Through revelation and GOD appearing in human form (the Incarnation) men may no longer make a righteous claim that their fear of GOD is “fear of the unknown.”  As with all human relationships, closeness to GOD, communication with sacred personhood, and intimacy with the Creator require continual displays of acceptance, humility, respect, trust, and truth.  Even though the living had their beginning in GOD before the creation of Adam and Eve, each person must come to GOD willingly, at their own pace, and in accordance with their own unique spirit content.  The living do not start out having sacred perfection, and must be prepared to interact with Deity in regular ways.  Thus, the operations of GOD for mankind through Jesus Christ are to establish permanent relationships with the divine fullness through discovery, edification, gradual growth, incarnation, inheritance, joining, judgment, oneness without sameness, revelation, unselfish service, sharing, enduring suffering, and embracing the everlasting victory over death.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Darren” (Level 1 with 4 points, a member since November 17, 2016) posted the following:

 

Is religion based in fear?

Religion isnt had. Believe what you want, I have no right over you. I’m just wondering if religion was created out of fear of the unknown.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.  And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.  Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment:  because as he is, so are we in this world.  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.  We love him, because he first loved us.  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?  And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.  (1st John 4:  15-21, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Fear Of Divine Gifts? (03/04/2018); A Response For Survivors… (02/15/2018); We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); Accepting Christ, Accepting Change (10/20/2017); The Thought of Dying (08/15/2017); No Fear In Love? (05/17/2017); The Endtime and Fear? (01/14/2015); Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); Freedom of Foul Speech? (09/10/2014)

 

“Darren”, Christians do not experience and practice “religion” so much as they acknowledge various possibilities for relationship with a living Deity who is the cause and origin for everything that exists, and who has imparted his own life essence (breath, spirit, Word) to all living.  Rather than speak of the Creator and Maker of the universe as an abstraction, an object in the natural world that may be manipulated, or an ordinary person who has extra ordinary ability and power, Christians respond to actions, proclamations, and promises provided from the beginnings of mankind to the present that are intended to make divinity knowable, known, accessible, and approachable.

GOD remains immortal and invisible, yet, has taught mankind how to recognize divinity as an active presence. Where divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is revealed there are recognizable exchanges, operations, patterns, and purposes that appear repeatedly.  In addition to responses to mankind made through the mechanical, natural process for living on the earth (e.g., birth, reproduction, seasons, weather) along with the frameworks of time and space, GOD enters into covenants of promise, adoption, friendships, marriage, and other intimate relationships with the living who willingly commit themselves through communication (e.g., praise, prayer, preaching), obedience of divine law, and unselfish service.

For a lasting relationship with mortals (those who will eventually die) GOD must provide inseparable aspects of his own Spirit that make a man or woman more “compatible” with GOD.  Along with divine lovingkindness, those who are “born again” are supplied with forgiveness, faith, holiness, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Relationships with divinity are intended to reinforce and support mankind through the life process we create on the earth; and so there will continue to be life challenges, “growing pains,” and suffering.  Even so, faith and other aspects of divine spirit does not generate or allow emotions of anger, fear, and hatred to continue.  The process of GOD is one of revealing and sharing, where things unknown can be met with balance, holy boldness, discipline, joy, maturity, and trust.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Psalms 23:  1-6, King James Version (KJV):  1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.  2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:  he leadeth me beside the still waters.  3 He restoreth my soul:  he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.  4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:  for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.  5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:  thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.  6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:  and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

(2.)  Isaiah 43:  1-3, KJV:  1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not:  for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.  2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee:  when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.  3 For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour:  I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.

(3.)  Psalms 27:  1-6, KJV:  1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?  2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.  3 Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear:  though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.  4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.  5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion:  in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.  6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me:  therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 3:  20-21, KJV:  20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock:  if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.  21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/01/2018) Standards For Godly Behavior

The photo is shared to depict the man who stands on godly principle and refuses to conform to dictates of the world.

 

Today, reply is on the imparted Spirit from GOD as the mechanism that generates and sets the standards for godly behavior among Christian believers.  Where we think of ones inner standards as aspects of their physical makeup, it makes sense to say that behavior emerges primarily from the elements of appetite, emotion, mind, and the stimulation of ones sense receptors.  However, neither the mechanics and operations of the flesh, nor the pressure from peers and the surrounding social environment completely account for behavior that expresses godly principles, eternal purposes, and the sacred revelation of divinity using mankind.  Only by operations of the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) do aspects of divine fullness appear among the living such as holy boldness, commitment, faith, longsuffering, sacred personhood, repentance, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “maulporphy” (Level 5 with 8,608 points, a member since March 24, 2016) posted the following:
 

Is your behavior influenced by religious standards, or simple human decency?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.  (Psalms 119:  9, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  There Must Be Rebirth (01/21/2018); Law of the Spirit (12/27/2017); Without the Divine Image? (10/15/2017); Conforming to Divine Standards (06/18/2017); Made in the Image of GOD? (10/09/2014); All Who Read Convert? (10/10/2014); His Burden is Light? (12/10/2012); Knowing Who Your Real Friends Are (12/11/2012)

 

“maulporphy”, Christian believers endorse the words of Jesus Christ, You must be born again.  The inborn spirit within created beings and living creatures is now predisposed to respond to the operations of sin that are contrary to their own makeup, that foster self-destruction, and that promote nonexistence.  The living must receive a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD.  Sinners who become born again experience death, burial, and rebirth of the inheritance from their parents that was conveyed to them  from the first pair (Adam).  The character and nature of ones life essence (we also say, breath, spirit, Word) is to establish as continuous the active presence who is recognized as the Creator.

Because the standards and values that proceed by the flesh center on appetite, sensations, emotions, and feelings that are constantly changing, yet, last only for a brief period (we say, are temporal), human experience and the quality of life often appear to lack continuity and stability; may seem cyclic, mechanical, pointless, and repetitive; and are dismissed by many as being no more than a series of disconnected episodes.  Relying on finite human standards and tools such as intellect, logic, secular knowledge, philosophy, politics, or science has not been able to eliminate sin from their lives either; and we find there are many who hold doctoral degrees, and are called “scientist” that are no less sinners despite their academic and social achievements—we say, they are “educated fools.”

Godliness is the fruit (product) of divine spirit.  Those who are born-again receive inseparable spirit content from GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, wrath against sin).  Even so, they must “grow up again” and mature while facing “growing pains” and life challenges on the earth that also include bereavement, disappointment, and suffering.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Proverbs 14:  12, King James Version (KJV):  12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

(2.)  Jeremiah 17:  9-10, KJV:  9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked:  who can know it?  10 I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.

(3.)  1st John 2:  15-16, KJV:  15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.  17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof:  but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, this word of prophecy, (4.)  Isaiah 28:  10-20, KJV:  10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:  11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.  12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing:  yet they would not hear.  13 But the word of the Lord was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.  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.  20 For the bed is shorter than that a man can stretch himself on it:  and the covering narrower than that he can wrap himself in it.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

 THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/20/2017) Growth Is Through Edification

 

Today, focus is on the operations of divine Spirit vital to Christian belief.  Every mature Christian believer began in a spiritual condition of darkness, disinterest, ignorance, immaturity, and infancy; each one had to gradually acquire the things of full Christian life.  Discernment and single-minded concentration are important when acquiring sacred knowledge, pursuing study of the holy writings, and comprehending doctrine.  Even so, the primary need of a believer is edification that comes through prophecy, not education that comes by secular studies, by relying on carnal reason, or by  promoting the Flesh and the World.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Do you believe it is right to teach young children only one religion, or would it be more fair to let them decide what to believe?

I was told Jesus was my savior all my life when i was young and I wish i had known more about other forms of religion and science.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward:  he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.  Train up a child in the way he should go:  and when he is old, he will not depart from it.  (Proverbs 22:  5-6, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Testing and Divine Process (06/12/2017); Baptism and Sacred Practices? (06/02/2017); Law and Divine Process (05/28/2017); Becoming A Full Person (02/12/2017); Are All Religions Acceptable? (01/11/2017); Benefiting From Your Childhood? (11/18/2016); On Expecting Quick Results (11/07/2016); Not Through Human Will? (01/29/2016)

 

“Anonymous”, children are to be exposed to the same doctrines and truth shared with their parents—while they are growing, not after they are grown.  It is not a matter of “mysticism” or “mumbo jumbo” to speak of sinners becoming the new creation through Jesus Christ; even so, it is difficult to make it all sound simple.  Growth and increase as a Christian believer require unceasing divine operations (e.g., praise, prophecy, rebirth, sacrifice, sanctification, suffering) and the repeated completion of sacred practices (we say, sacraments) that establish ones awareness and self-will in continuous contact with divinity.  Carnal, material, secular, and social life experiences rely on finite human tools such as intellect, logic, critical thinking, philosophy, science, and sensations.  By contrast, there must be a full immersion of ones character, spirit aspects (e.g., integrity, oneness without sameness, person, presence), and substance before they are enabled to apprehend the broad range of sacred laws, eternal purposes, spiritual truths and subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden and sudden shifts in meaning, quality, and value).  As a “born again” believer, the sinner must receive deposits of spirit content from the makeup of GOD.  Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, humility, gratitude, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Obedience permits unseen contacts, interactions, and movements among the inseparable aspects of life essence (breath, spirit, word), and the believer is able to acquire necessary divine order and patterns for consistency and stability without having detailed explanations.  Additionally, a believer must build up their “discernment” (the ability use ones own endowment of spirit from the makeup of GOD to correctly recognize and respond to the same spirit residing within events, other persons, the holy writings, etc.).  Consider again the following from the Bible:

(1.)  Malachi 3:  14-18, KJV:  14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God:  and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts?  15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.  16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another:  and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.  17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.  18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

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

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (3.)  Hebrews 5:  12-14, KJV:  12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.  13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness:  for he is a babe.  14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/11/2017) Are All Religions Acceptable?

 

Today, reply is made to a question whether GOD accepts the beliefs and practices of every religion.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers (Canada)” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

Does God really care what religion is practiced as long as it is respectful and … ?

… what does this mean?

Update: All religions are wonderful but please do not shun is what … meant: Do Not Shun!

Update 2: James thank you so much for the link and were you the apostle once?

Update 3: I miss the good old days on here when religion was much simpler

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)  Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.  For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.  Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:  That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.  (Romans 5:  17-21, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Proof That GOD Exists? (10/16/2016); The Focus Upon Spirit (09/12/2016); Can A Church Not Be “Religious”? (07/27/2016); Be Ye Therefore Perfect (07/22/2016); Salvation Only Through Christ? (01/07/2016); Religion And Moral Progress? (10/23/2015); Conflict Because of Religious Belief? (01/30/2015)

 

“Anonymous”, because the living operate on multiple levels all at the same time (e.g., appetite, psychological makeup, sensation, personal and social maturity) such features as spiritual beliefs, explanations, goals, philosophies, and practices are in place that are spoken of as “religions”.   Correctly understood, Christianity is not a “religion”.  Among mature believers, the aspects of existence, relationship with divinity, transformation, and transcendence are uppermost.  Focus is not upon finite material objects, carnal reason, secular process, and temporal purposes.  All Christians must be carried through sacred operations that will establish permanent changes in their spirit content.  Endowments of divine substance from the makeup of GOD are imparted whereby sinners are to become life companions to immortal, incorruptible Deity.  Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Water baptism demonstrates the death and burial of ones inborn spirit and their rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak.  Christianity requires that its followers behave and think in specific ways that will “make visible” the unseen, yet, “active presence” of GOD.  Thus, such features come into view as “exclusive devotion”, hope of Advent, divine jealousy, judgment, promise, prophecy, sanctification, suffering, and “the express will of GOD” (i.e., divine law)”.  Consider the following:

(1.)  Exodus 20:  3-7, King James Version (KJV):  3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.  4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.  5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them:  for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;  6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.  7 Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

(2.)  Isaiah 48:  10-12, KJV:  10 Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.  11 For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it:  for how should my name be polluted? and I will not give my glory unto another.  12 Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last.

(3.)  1st Peter 1:  15-16,  KJV:  15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;  16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, 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

 

(10/27/2016) Become Like Jesus Christ?

 

Salvador Dali, THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD’S SUPPER (1955)

 

Today, a reply is shared that followers of Jesus becoming Christ-like is more necessary than their simply believing, belonging, and behaving like church members.  Readers are encouraged to hear Your Best Destiny (Parts 1 and 2) from Seventh Day Adventist Pastor Wintley Phipps delivered before the Toronto East SDA Church November 14, 2015, and available at YouTube.com:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmC9NVpnpBU&html5=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSO7UxlEeC4&html5=1

A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers (Philippines)” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

 

If Christianity is the one TRUE religion, why does it require FAITH in order to believe in it?

Anything that’s FAITH based doesn’t have solid PROOF that it is real.. If that were the case then you wouldn’t need faith to believe in it. its like playing the lottery.. You try to have FAITH that you’re going to win.. But just because you have FAITH that you’ll win, doesn’t mean that you will win.. You’re just hoping that you’ll win the same way you’re just hoping your religion is the only eight religion….

You CANT prove that Christianity is true, the same way Atheists CANT prove that it isn’t true.. It could very well be true, and it could very well be false too.

Don’t get me wrong, I KNOW there is a GOD, however I don’t believe in religion. I personally believe God is the creating spiritual force and source in which we all are connected to and belong to, regardless of race, gender, or religion. We are all an extension of that creating force, therefore we are co-creators of life on earth and our history. Everything in life WE created together. Think about it.. Gay marriage wouldn’t be possible if enough people didn’t come together to make that a possibility.. So it was us that ultimately created that and allowed it to be a possibility in our country/universe.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  Sanctify them through thy truth:  thy word is truth.  As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.  And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.  Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;  That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us:  that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:  I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.  Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me:  for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.  O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee:  but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.  And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it:  that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.  (John 17:  16-26, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Good Christians and Church? (10/19/2016); How To Get Faith? (10/10/2016); Spirit Content From GOD? (09/26/2016); GOD Within Christian Believers (07/31/2016); Can A Church Not Be “Religious”? (07/27/2016); A Correct Church? (10/05/2015); Relationship With Our Creator? (03/16/2015)

“Anonymous”, sinners are to acquire attitudes, desires, and purposes from the heart and mind of Jesus Christ.  Initially becoming a follower of the Lord is an act of self-will directed to acquiring the character, nature, and substance of divinity as it may reside within flesh upon the earth.  Through baptism (death of ones inborn sprit, rebirth from divine DNA, so to speak) sinners become a new creation of GOD, and increasingly operate directed by the same divine will that exists within Jesus Christ, who continues to minister among mankind from heaven.  Born-again believers must gradually grow, learn, and become ripe for harvest by the Lord at his coming (we say, the Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming) when their transformation to be companions to divinity will be completed as they meet him in the air.  Sinners are challenged to do more than simply, believe doctrines, preaching, promises, and prophecies; belong to (i.e., have membership in) an assembly, congregation, community of faith, or church family; and behave conforming to customs, patterns, standards, and traditions.  True believers are to become like Jesus, and display the inseparable aspects of divine makeup shared by both the Son and the Father that include faith, gratitude, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, meekness, respect, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again how this is stated using divine law and language from the holy writings:

(1.)  Leviticus 11:  42-45, King James Version (KJV):  42 Whatsoever goeth upon the belly, and whatsoever goeth upon all four, or whatsoever hath more feet among all creeping things that creep upon the earth, them ye shall not eat; for they are an abomination.  43 Ye shall not make yourselves abominable with any creeping thing that creepeth, neither shall ye make yourselves unclean with them, that ye should be defiled thereby.  44 For I am the LORD your God:  ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy:  neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.  45 For I am the LORD that bringeth you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God:  ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy.

(2.)  Leviticus 19:  1-3, KJV:  1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,  2 Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy:  for I the LORD your God am holy.  3 Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths:  I am the LORD your God. 

(3.)  Titus 2:  11-14, KJV:  11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,  12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;  13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;  14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  1st Peter 1:  13-16, KJV:  13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;  14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:  15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;  16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC