(10/08/2018) Challenged To Explain Resurrection

 

Today, the reply is on explaining the details of divine resurrection from death. Salvation from GOD that acknowledges the demand for, yet, circumvents death among the living is accomplished through divine operations whereby there is a separation and rejoining of flesh and spirit. The course of eternal life now may be accounted as uninterrupted through the inclusion of a pause or rest (we say, sleep). A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “mathdad” (Level 1 with 173 points, a member since May 24, 2012) posted the following:

 

Resurrection of the Dead?

Explain the resurrection. What happens in the grave? We are destroyed by worms. We turn to dust. Cremation destroys the body. No one has been resurrected after years of death. So, explain the resurrection, if you can. The Bible talks about two resurrections:

1. Resurrection of the saved

2. Resurrection of the lost

Tell me, how does dust become a brand new, resurrected body?

 

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

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Fulfillment of Proclamation (06/01/2018); The Elimination of Death? (05/13/2018); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); Christ Is The Firstborn (12/26/2017); Bereavement, Death and Suffering (11/10/2017); About Revelation not Punishment? (11/25/2016); Ghosts (09/02/2012); About Conversion (09/03/2012)

 

“mathdad”, your question on resurrection of the human body as a process carried out and performed by GOD requires a detailed description for the out-workings of authority, sacred power, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign will that appeared in the Creation, and will attend the Advent of Jesus Christ (we say, the harvest; the Rapture; the Second Coming). The operations of divinity among developing Christian believers include imparting spirit substance from the makeup of the Creator that enables existence and life as well as continuing communication, exchange, and interaction (we say, ongoing relationship). Inseparable spirit content from GOD is required when sharing sacred knowledge in place of finite secular knowledge. Included must be faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

While the process of divinity through Jesus Christ is one of disclosure and revelation, there remain many divine mysteries and secrets that never will be exposed to created beings and living creatures. Where answers may appear to be lacking information there often is no need because the process of sharing truth is by acceptance, affirmation, faith, and trust. The living are to apprehend divinity by existing and by living, rather than by death, dying, ignorance, or ungodliness. Becoming “born again” grants sinners a fresh endowment of Spirit from GOD that will serve as a seed for their growth as offspring of GOD who will eventually display commitment, discernment, fellowship, obedience to divine law, ministry, the fulfillment of promise and prophecy, reverence, unselfish service, and the endurance of hardship and suffering.

Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings:

(1.) Deuteronomy 29: 29, King James Version (KJV): 29 The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 15: 12-23, 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. 15 Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. 16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 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.

(3.) 1^st Corinthians 15: 35-44, KJV: 35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? 36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: 37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38 But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. 40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43 It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Isaiah 55: 10-11, KJV: 10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/01/2018) A Fulfillment of Proclamation

 

Today, reply is on burial for the dead as the fulfillment of divine proclamation, rather than comfort in bereavement, family duty, or using novelty to express affection and memorial.  The substance of mankind is both from dust and from heaven.  Many of the human errors regarding the condition and state of the dead also are recorded in the holy writings (e.g., in the Golden Arrow below, Job describes a widely held error, that there is a realm of the dead where the living may rest and sleep.  By contrast, the Holy City, New Jerusalem, is to be a realm of those raised and returned from the dead who all will have eternal life.  Even so, the Bible does not teach that we will die, go to our graves, and there live happily ever after.)  While some insist that their dead be interred in settings that have been sanctified through prayer (i.e., church yards; holy ground)—and account it a form of excommunication to be denied burial as a benefit, privilege, and righteous reward for having been loyal members within a church congregation—resurrection of the dead in completion of divine judgment even will include divinity acknowledging and restoring bodies that were destroyed or lost through burning, dismemberment, and explosions.  Beyond resurrection and ones personhood existing in the divine presence, there is little indication within the holy writings that how the physical body is disposed of determines closure, completeness, contentment, or fulfillment for ones spirit.  In the vision granted to John, souls under the altar behave as petitions and prayers for judgment, justice, and righteousness, to wit, the redemption of the body.    The  fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “?” (Level 1 with 30 points, a member since April 11, 2018) posted the following:

 

Do you want to be cremated or buried ?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Why died I not from the womb? why did I not give up the ghost when I came out of the belly?  Why did the knees prevent me? or why the breasts that I should suck?  For now should I have lain still and been quiet, I should have slept:  then had I been at rest,  With kings and counsellors of the earth, which build desolate places for themselves;  Or with princes that had gold, who filled their houses with silver:  Or as an hidden untimely birth I had not been; as infants which never saw light.  There the wicked cease from troubling; and there the weary be at rest.  There the prisoners rest together; they hear not the voice of the oppressor.  The small and great are there; and the servant is free from his master.  Wherefore is light given to him that is in misery, and life unto the bitter in soul;  Which long for death, but it cometh not; and dig for it more than for hid treasures;  Which rejoice exceedingly, and are glad, when they can find the grave?  (Job 3:  11-22, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Completing Divine Unfinished Business (04/17/2017); Life Is GOD’s Intent (11/15/2016); The Purpose of Resurrection (07/05/2016); The Body of Moses (05/11/2014); GOD Permits Evil? (05/12/2014); Our Present Comfort? (06/28/2013); Come As You Are? (06/29/2013); Scripture at Funerals? (04/30/2013); Why Jesus Authored No Books (05/01/2013)

 

“?”, here are some points mature Christian believers have found helpful for maintaining godly focus on issues of death, mourning, and remembrance:

1.  The word of GOD to Adam (“to dust thou shalt return”)  was speaking about the material form (we say, the body; the flesh) that may exist without life essence (we say, breath, spirit, word) imparted from the makeup of GOD.  A physical complete body may exist, yet, be without spirit content to qualify as “a living soul.”  It is written:  Ecclesiastes 12:  7, King James Version (KJV):  7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was:  and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

2.  Abraham traveled throughout Canaan as a nomad, and did not seek to obtain property by conquest, by continuous occupation, or purchase.  Abraham was offered a piece of land as a gift, and a show of respect, however, the Patriarch insisted there be an open transaction for the public record in the gate (i.e., downtown; the business district; the town square).  It is written:  Genesis 23:  19-20, KJV:  19 And after this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field of Machpelah before Mamre:  the same is Hebron in the land of Canaan.  20 And the field, and the cave that is therein, were made sure unto Abraham for a possession of a buryingplace by the sons of Heth.

3.  Blood from murder and warfare defile the earth.  Thus, burial comes into view as more than simply an act of sanitation to remove decomposing flesh.  Burial comes into view as an expression of dynasty, family, inheritance and marital love that uses the frameworks of time and space to provide measurable dimensions and unchanging parameters for remembrance.  It is written:   Genesis 49:  28-33, KJV:  28 All these are the twelve tribes of Israel:  and this is it that their father spake unto them, and blessed them; every one according to his blessing he blessed them.  29 And he charged them, and said unto them, I am to be gathered unto my people:  bury me with my fathers in the cave that is in the field of Ephron the Hittite,  30 In the cave that is in the field of Machpelah, which is before Mamre, in the land of Canaan, which Abraham bought with the field of Ephron the Hittite for a possession of a buryingplace.  31 There they buried Abraham and Sarah his wife; there they buried Isaac and Rebekah his wife; and there I buried Leah.  32 The purchase of the field and of the cave that is therein was from the children of Heth.  33 And when Jacob had made an end of commanding his sons, he gathered up his feet into the bed, and yielded up the ghost, and was gathered unto his people.

4.  The examples from Abraham (who is called the Friend of GOD) and Jacob (also called Israel) are seen responding to the oneness without sameness that mankind is to display as a product and fruit of the earth as well as the initial commission that mankind replenish the earth.  Christians do not preserve dead bodies to await the return of their spirit.  No dead body is of itself holy or sacred (thus, the taking up of Joseph’s body at the Exodus was not an act of idolatry and worshiping his remains); and there is no belief in an “immortal soul,” or reincarnation where spirit content is recycled.  It is written:  1st Chronicles 10:  10-14, KJV:  10 And they put his armour in the house of their gods, and fastened his head in the temple of Dagon.  11 And when all Jabeshgilead heard all that the Philistines had done to Saul,  12 They arose, all the valiant men, and took away the body of Saul, and the bodies of his sons, and brought them to Jabesh, and buried their bones under the oak in Jabesh, and fasted seven days.  13 So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the LORD, even against the word of the LORD, which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit, to enquire of it;  14 And enquired not of the LORD:  therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, regarding the activity, condition, and state of the dead, the holy writings plainly declare the dead neither have awareness or physical feeling; they do not praise GOD; and they neither labor nor rest.  Even so, spirits from the living are being maintained through sacred operations.  Many offer heartfelt prayers that the response of GOD to souls of the saints will continue compassion, mercy, and peace.  It is written:  5.  Revelation 6:  8-10, KJV:  8 And I looked, and behold a pale horse:  and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.  9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:  10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O LORD, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(05/14/2018) Sabbath Acknowledges Divine Personhood?

 

Today, topics include benefits, punitive judgment, and divine purposes for the Sabbath.  Regarding Sabbath as a spiritual reality, Christians ought to embrace Sabbath-keeping as a work that ministers to mankind, because it first ministers to and serves divinity.  Exorcism, healing, miracles, preaching and prophecy pertain to divinity maintaining the Sabbath as holy.  Many of the keywords for speaking about the Sabbath as a benefit to mankind begin with the letter “R”:  for example, rebirth, reconciliation, refresh, regenerate, relationships, remember, renew, repair, repent, replenish, respect, restore, reveal.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “halo R” (Level 2 with 837 points, a member since January 10, 2009) posted the following in the Religion and Spirituality forum:

 

Question about the Bible?

“The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath”

We understand this passage as the Sabbath being a day that benefits the faith of Humankind.

If this is the case, then how is putting someone to death for breaking the sabbath benefitting an individuals faith? (the case of the man collecting sticks on the sabbath)

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:  Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father:  for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.  (Isaiah 58:  13-14, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Conditions Set By Covenant? (09/13/2017); A Divine Day Off? (02/15/2016); The 8th Day? (11/01/2015); Sabbath, Power, and Rest? (07/17/2015); Changing Times and Laws? (05/14/2014); Should Men Take Their Hats Off? (05/15/2014); To Keep It Holy (02/23/2014); 7 “Godly” Sins? (02/24/2014); About Sabbath (10/16/2013); We Shall Behold Him (10/17/2013); Time Before the Sun? (04/14/2013); The Obedience of Jesus? (04/15/2013)

 

“halo R”, here are come points to consider that you may find useful: 

1.  Many mature Christians now understand the Sabbath Day as a temporal acknowledgement of divinity who exists as an eternal active presence (we say, breath, spirit, word) within the earth and throughout the universe. 

2.  The origin of Sabbath is tied to the putting forth of heaven and earth, all existence, and all life (we say, Creation); and was not introduced through a body of law provided to establish the offspring of Adam (mankind) in covenant as a priestly and sacred nation under GOD.

3.  While the character, makeup, nature, and will of GOD are immutable, invisible and unchanging, divinity is to be knowable, known, accessible, and approachable by created beings and living creatures through revelation that includes discovery, gradual growth, Incarnation, praise, prayer, proclamation, prophecy, rebirth, suffering, and unselfish service.

4.  Correctly understood, the Sabbath is a sacred and eternal event—spoken of using the frameworks of time and space as though Sabbath is a discrete, past, one-time occurrence—wherein the fullness of divine personhood (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) proclaims divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and sovereign authority that manifest as divine order. 

5.  In continuing the divine operations as centered in rest, divinity also affirms, examines, and assigns value (we say, conducts tribunal; performs judgment) of all that has been established and made.

6.  Where believers endorse ordinances and statutes (i.e., laws) that command and regulate Sabbath-keeping they must be careful not to overly invest in and restore the letter of the ancient calendars and laws that require they acknowledge, where a single point of the law is transgressed, the whole law is broken.  More correct, Christians are to invest in the fulfillment of the law by Jesus Christ, and performing the spirit (righteousness) of the law.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, 7.  The first pair (Adam and Eve) shared in the Sabbath observance as life companions to divinity, not as fallen creatures in need of reconciliation and recovery.  That celebration is to be unending.  Even so, the things of Creation requiring fulfillment and further work are sought out and identified, revealing the Creator as a GOD of judgment, numberless possibilities, and fixed progressions.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/16/2018) Mankind’s Priesthood in Heaven

A DEPICTION OF THE HOLY CITY COMING DOWN FROM HEAVEN TO THE EARTH AS THE BRIDE OF CHRIST

 

Today, reply is on the work to be done in heaven by those who become joined to the High Priest, Jesus Christ, through the Holy Spirit.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “STEVAN” (Level 1 with 8 points, a member since February 17, 2016) posted the following:

 

Will it be okay with god,for me to wander about heaven in comfortable jogging pants for the rest of eternity?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters?  Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?  (1st Corinthians 6:  2-3, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Priesthood on Earth (01/31/2018); Heaven Temporal, GOD Eternal (12/12/2017); Christ Our High Priest (10/25/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Called To Be Servants? (11/25/2015); What is Worship? (10/18/2010); No Free Will (10/19/2010)

 

“STEVAN”, many talk about going to heaven, yet, have no clear goals, or meaningful purpose that says what they will do when they get there.  We have to go beyond the notion that heaven is a place for leisurely gawking, gazing and staring at marvels and wonders.  Heaven is a place of divine ministry and exalted works that include sacred rest, yet, is not a place for the make-believe images from our childhood (i.e., angel choirs seated on the clouds and singing while plucking on their harps).  We are being alerted and cautioned prior to the return of Jesus to realize we have been recruited to be servants, and those who perform necessary work, for even mature Christian believers have not always been careful to consider the eternal ministry of Jesus Christ as Risen Lord, and the multiple works the living are being enrolled to complete with him in heaven, and on the earth made new.  In the same way the priesthood of Jesus to Israel required he select, train, and send forth disciples, who would later serve as prophets, apostles, vessels of the Holy Spirit, and witnesses of his resurrection and ascension, those who are “born again” are to be joint-heirs with Christ, and serve as judges, priests, and kings both in heaven as well as on the earth made new.  In addition to those who belong to Christ participating through their works in the judgment of the wicked, there are the work of finishing the Holy City (New Jerusalem) where Satan will never set foot, of assigning and distributing allotments and rewards to the saints as well as sharing in continual acknowledgment and praise.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Mark 1:  16-18, King James Version (KJV):  16 Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea:  for they were fishers.  17 And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.  18 And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.

(2.)  Matthew 19:  27-29, KJV:  27 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?  28 And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.  29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.

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

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 7:  9-15, KJV:  9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;  10 And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.  11 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,  12 Saying, Amen:  Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.  13 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?  14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.  15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple:  and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/20/2015) On Wearing Sports Jerseys?

Adornment, amusements, and social activities conducted within the church are topics, today.  Believers are to be in the world, yet, not of it.  The clothing believers wear can neither ensure their salvation, nor of itself seal them in condemnation.  Many believers are committed to a process for increasing the church that relies upon connecting to outside the congregation upon their own carnal, material, and social level.  Even so, judgment remains the exclusive province of Christ partly because there must be a weighing of things that are subtle (i.e., barely visible; having hidden shifts in meaning and value), and that have no physical substance such as comprehension, divine prerogative, and eternal purposes.  Those within communities of faith also may derive benefit from amusements such as family entertainment, ice cream socials, singles activity, and Super Bowl parties.  However, just as accountability and intimacy within the home generate a different standard for shared activities to entertain and refresh the family, recreation within the body of believers that appears in the public forum should always continue circumspection and restraint.  To avoid misrepresentation of the spiritual body, leisure behavior should only be shared in private settings, and not events open to the public.  Consider again the following from the Bible, and the comments appearing below:  John 7:  24, King James Version (KJV):  24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.  Also, 2nd Corinthians 13:  5, KJV:  5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.  Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?  2nd Corinthians 4:  15-17, KJV:  15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.  16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! 7 Answers” (Australia) using the ID “Anonymous” (profile information withheld) posted the following:

 

Christians: What are your thoughts of this Protestant church promoting the wearing of sports jersies to their weekend services?

Crossroads Fellowship Church

Saturday, November 7 | 5:00pm
Sunday, November 8 | 8:30am, 10:00am, & 11:30am

Wear Your Favorite Team Jersey to Church!

How do you feel about this? Show your team spirit by wearing your favorite team jersey to church!

Come prepared for worship and game day fun!

 http://www.crossroads.org/story.aspx?storyid=1125

Update:  Do you see this as an abomination? A desperate marketing tactic perhaps?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.  And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;  To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.  To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak:  I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.  And this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.  Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.  And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.  I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:  But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection:  lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.  (1st Corinthians 9:  19-27, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Not A Matter Of Opinion? (04/24/2014); What Faith Makes Possible (04/25/2014); Worship Wear? (01/23/2014); Mankind Destroyed? (01/24/2014); Are Holidays Bad? (11/16/2013); Denying GOD by Eating Shrimp? (11/17/2013); Will GOD Bless My Team? (12/31/2012); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, in the effort to create an atmosphere of mutual acceptance, suspension of being judged by others, and unconditional love, many congregations of Christian believers now appear to operate without the strict dress codes and standards that once distinguished church goers and Christian believers as “sanctified” (i.e., set apart for the exclusive use of divinity).  For those in relationship with GOD through Jesus Christ, it is important to address such doctrines and themes as release from the strictures of Old Testament law; new life by apprehension of divine spirit content; new covenant grounded in righteousness through faith as well as discerning sameness and difference for the spirit of divine law and its letter.  Even so, there is never to be a total abandonment of discipline, regulation, and shared truth that establishes stability.

Correctly understood, sanctification proceeds only by operations of GOD, and is not the product of indoctrination, intellect, logic, and reason.  Believers experience excitement joy, and zeal as they acquire sacred knowledge and gain mastery through sacred practice (we say, observing sacraments).  However, these are aspects of the character, nature and spirit that make up divinity; and are not the same as emotion, excitement, fanaticism, and passion that characterize carnal and finite being.

Correctly received, assembling and church attendance are gifts and sacred events from GOD wherein believers are granted access to the divine presence, and opportunity to be in shared communion and direct exchange with Deity.  Mature believers “put their best foot forward” and wear their “Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes” as acknowledgment, and an outward demonstration of inner order, propriety and respect toward GOD.  What they wear is not intended for boasting, showing off, and vainglory.  Their attitude, mind-set and motives are directed to knowing and pleasing GOD.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, believers have to be careful to avoid the trap that baits them into judging others.  Because all believers must gradually develop and grow, everyone who participates in a gathering at the church does not come being on the same level of commitment, devotion, maturity, and understanding.  All appear because they are confessing their need for change, correction and growth.  The welcome is equally to those seeking peace and rest as it is for those seeking their place as disciples, laborers and workers for the kingdom.  What appears as casual dress and clothing more suited to play often has been chosen for its value as a lubricant to contact (i.e., familiarity, recognition, remembering), being in proper uniform for hard work, and a lever to interaction that will nourish the body.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(07/17/2015) Sabbath, Power, and Rest?

Today, points are shared on divine rest as an aspect of balance and sacred process for Creation.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Love Unites” (Level 7 with 31,726 points, a member since May 08, 2013) posted the following: 

In the Biblical story of creation, God rested. Why would an all-powerful god need to rest?

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:  Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father:  for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.  (Isaiah 58:  13-14, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Sabbath Transferred to Sunday? (04/05/2015); Divine Sleep (03/28/2014); The Storm-battered City? (03/29/2014); To Keep It Holy (02/23/2014); 7 “Godly” Sins? (02/24/2014); About Sabbath (10/16/2013); We Shall Behold Him (10/17/2013)

“Love Unites”, all created beings and living creatures must undergo permanent change as an aspect of approaching and having access to divinity.  The carnal and finite tools they regularly depend upon can not provide them with complete, correct sacred knowledge.  The needed change is so all-encompassing and extensive, we simply say, You must be born again.  Ones awareness must be altered to continually acknowledge that GOD is a spirit, who must be known through such features of the divine makeup as faith, holiness, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin, rather than through such limited human tools as emotion, logic, intellect, philosophy, and science.  Please consider the following points:

(1.)  The holy writings are more than simply a mix of informal accounts and official records regarding secular events and human history.  The Scriptures should be received as a peculiar manifestation (we say, appearance, form, incarnation) of divinity.  Readers who have been properly prepared through such sacred operations as baptism, contemplation, fasting, and prayer receive a peculiar consciousness that may only come forth from GOD.

(2.)  Deity operates upon a cosmic scale.  The holy writings provide a divine point of view, so to speak, where the active presence of GOD is demonstrated through thousands of events using thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years.  Given these things are intended to edify, permit connection, and strengthen the living, many details and features that appear are only for the benefit of those who make full commitment to GOD, and are not for casual readers.

(3.)  Despite being those who receive spirit content from the makeup of divinity (we say, the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth, the Spirit of Prophecy), born-again believers must gradually develop and mature meeting the same life challenges as others upon the earth. 

(4.)  With sacred consciousness there is also new meaning, new understanding and new value for multiple actions, ideas, and expressions of language.  Believers gradually put aside the frameworks of time, space, material dimension (we say, measurement), and sense experience (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching).  The presence of GOD becomes known through such attributes as holy boldness, hope, humility, love, obedience, and unselfishness.

There is far more that should be said, correctly understood, and spiritually taken into account.  (For example (5.)  Sabbath, power, and rest are aspects of eternal perfection that pertain to immortality, immutability, and permanence.  Many are unknowingly anchored in an awareness that is ego-centered (we also say, self-centered), exalting mankind as the most important and necessary aspect of existence.  Such persons naturally impose upon GOD their expectations and limits including exhaustion, fatigue of ones muscles, hunger, lapses of attention and mind, weakness, and need for sleep to recover, recuperate or regain lost divine substance.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/05/2015) Sabbath Transferred to Sunday?

Change, prophecy, resurrection, Sabbath, sacred law, and Sunday are topics, today.  After some hours of careful work, I was able to present a portion of a response to the six classic arguments (errors) regarding the Sabbath being changed by the Resurrection of Jesus.  This clear, well-reasoned teaching appeared (without a byline naming the author) within a newspaper article written in 1850.  The various arguments compared to the word of GOD were shown as follows: “1. That the Jewish prophets predicted, such a change; 2. That there was a necessity for the change in order to commemorate the completion of the work of redemption, which was finished by the resurrection of Christ; * * * 4. That on this day of the week Christ frequently met with his disciples after the resurrection; 5. That from that time the Apostles and primitive Christians religiously observed the first day in memory of this event, and as a substitute for the Sabbath ; 6. That the day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended, was the first day of the week ; 7. That by “Lord’s day,” (Rev. i, 10,) the first day of the week was intended.”  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “truth” (Level 3 with 1,367 points, a member since July 20, 2009) posted the following:

 

Jesus is risen! That is why Sunday became a holiday -the Lord’s Day – in the world. This is the foundation of Christianity. OK?

Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. 2 And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. 3 And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. 4 The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. 6 He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. 7 Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.”

Matthew 28

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Thus he said, The fourth beast shall be the fourth kingdom upon earth, which shall be diverse from all kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, and shall tread it down, and break it in pieces.  And the ten horns out of this kingdom are ten kings that shall arise:  and another shall rise after them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue three kings.  And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws:  and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time.  But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end.  And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.  (Daniel 7:  23-27, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  GOD and The Framework of Time (09/20/2014); About Knowing the Name of GOD (09/21/2014); Changing Times and Laws? (05/14/2014); Should Men Take Their Hats Off? (05/15/2014); To Keep It Holy (02/23/2014); 7 “Godly” Sins? (02/24/2014); About Sabbath (10/16/2013); We Shall Behold Him (10/17/2013); Newness of Spirit? (01/04/2013); Two Different Testaments? (01/05/2013)

 

“truth”, here is one of many unpopular, sacred teachings derived by examination of the Bible that was published in Paris, ME, November 1850 in volume one, number one of a newspaper, SECOND ADVENT REVIEW, AND SABBATH HERALD.  Six of seven arguments were detailed in the article (without byline naming the author), Has the Sabbath been changed from the Seventh to the First day of the Week? (p. 1-4).  Such things are only shared and taken seriously among believers having the meekness of Jesus:

7. “Lord’s Day.”—An argument for the change of the Sabbath is founded on the supposed application of the title “Lord’s day,” to the first day of the week.  The only passage referred to for the purpose of sustaining it, is Rev, i, 10. “I was in the spirit on the Lord’s day.”  But that the day here called the Lord’s day, is the first day of the week, is merely assumed, and hence is not to be considered as proved.  It is not in fact probable that this is the day referred to.  * * * If these words be understood to refer to a natural day, it is more likely to be the seventh day, which God had blessed and sanctified for his special service, than the first day.  The seventh day is called by Him “my holy day,” and “the holy of the Lord”—phrases similar to the one in this passage.  This was also the Sabbath which was made for man, and of which Christ says he is Lord.  And since it was observed up to the close of the New Testament history, it would be perfectly natural for John to speak of it as ” the Lord’s day.”  Further, there is no evidence that the first day of the week was denominated the Lord’s day, at so early a period.  Only one writer mentions the expression till towards the close of the second century ; and the reputed author of this passage, when speaking, in his Gospel, (which was written some years later than the Apocalypse,) of the resurrection of Christ, and the first day of the week, never intimates that the day should be called by any other name.  The learned Morer, though an advocate for the first day, in mentioning the different days to which this phrase may be applied, acknowledges the entire uncertainty as to what day is intended, and says, “It is very likely that the more solemn and public use of the words was not observed until about the time of Sylvester II., when, by Constantine’s command, it became an injunction.”  It is evident, therefore, that this passage cannot justly be used as proof that the Sabbath was transferred to the first day of the week.

We have now examined the texts commonly adduced to prove a change of the original Sabbath, and have them utterly insufficient and deceptive. Hence the claims of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, without alteration, are fully sustained.  The advocates for the first clay arc aware that if an abrogation or change of the original Sabbath law cannot be made out, the seventh clay is still the true Sabbath.  Dr. Dwight, for instance, makes the following admission:  “If we cannot find in the Scriptures plain and simple proof of the abrogation of the original day, or the substitution of a new one, the seventh day undoubtedly remains in full force and obligation, and is now to be celebrated by all the race of Adam.”  [From Sab. Vindicator]

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, the Lord’s resurrection was not intended to change divine law, or the timing for scheduled sacred events previously announced through prophecy.  Jesus came to fulfill, not to annul, countermand, or erase.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/04/2014) The Inward Man Renewed?

A brief Scripture study is shared today focused upon the renewal of believers through the operations of the Holy Spirit, and by praise, prayer, and service.

 

SOME THOUGHTS ON

 

15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.

16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

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.  (2nd Corinthians 4:  15-18, KJV)

 

2nd Chronicles 15:  7-9 (KJV)  7 Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak:  for your work shall be rewarded.  8 And when Asa heard these words, and the prophecy of Oded the prophet, he took courage, and put away the abominable idols out of all the land of Judah and Benjamin, and out of the cities which he had taken from mount Ephraim, and renewed the altar of the LORD, that was before the porch of the Lord.  9 And he gathered all Judah and Benjamin, and the strangers with them out of Ephraim and Manasseh, and out of Simeon:  for they fell to him out of Israel in abundance, when they saw that the LORD his God was with him.

Psalms 51:  6-12 (KJV)  6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts:  and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.  7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean:  wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.  8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.  9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.  10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.  11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.  12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

Psalms 103:  1-6 (KJV)  1 Bless the LORD, O my soul:  and all that is within me, bless his holy name.  2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:  3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;  4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;  5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.  6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.

Psalms 119:  74-76 (KJV)  74 They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word.  75 I know, O LORD, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.  76 Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant.

Isaiah 40:  28-31 (KJV)  28 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.  29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.  30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:  31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Isaiah 41:  1 (KJV)  1 Keep silence before me, O islands; and let the people renew their strength:  let them come near; then let them speak:  let us come near together to judgment.

Jeremiah 31:  32-34 (KJV)  32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD:  33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.  34 And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD:  for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD:  for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.

Lamentations 5:  19-21 (KJV)  19 Thou, O LORD, remainest for ever; thy throne from generation to generation.  20 Wherefore dost thou forget us for ever, and forsake us so long time?  21 Turn thou us unto thee, O LORD, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old.

Romans 12:  1-2 (KJV)  1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.  2 And be not conformed to this world:  but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Ephesians 4:  22-27 (KJV)  22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;  23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;  24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.  25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour:  for we are members one of another.  26 Be ye angry, and sin not:  let not the sun go down upon your wrath:  27 Neither give place to the devil.

Colossians 3:  9-11 (KJV)  9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;  10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:  11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free:  but Christ is all, and in all.

Titus 3:  3-7 (KJV)  3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.  4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,  5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;  6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;  7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Hebrews 6:  4-8 (KJV)  4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,  5 And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,  6 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.  7 For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:  8 But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.

Luke 11:  2-4 (KJV)  2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.  Thy kingdom come.  Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.  3 Give us day by day our daily bread.  4 And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us.  And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.

 

There is far more to be said, properly shared, and spiritually understood.  Most of you have not yet responded, however, I again invite readers to add any verse or passage from Scripture that they would like to share in the comments area (see below).  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to the workings of the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth, and the Testimony of Jesus in you.  Grow in grace.

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/15/2014) Should Men Take Their Hats Off?

Adornment, church attendance, prophecy, and spirit power are topics, today.  Also, there is more on changing times and laws.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Richard” (Level 3 with 1,183 points, a member since October 05, 2010) posted the following:

 

Why should I have to take my cap off in church? 

I wear my cap for personal reasons. I dislike everything about religion anyway, but why should men take their hats off when women keep their ridiculous looking hats on?

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  The changing of times (i.e., appointments, calendars, pre-arranged events, pre-determined actions, schedules) and laws is practiced by men, who count themselves leaders for self-justification and self-promotion.  The changing of times counterfeits and mimics the divine operations whereby signs (we say, displays of divine power through nature, miracles, or sacred events) are provided to give assurance that a message, or prophetic demonstration claimed to be from GOD is authentic, is certain of fulfillment, is sealed (i.e., not to be altered, contradicted, or countermanded), and bears a personal signature of the Almighty, so to speak.  The framework of seasons and time is maintained through the cycles of moon, stars, and sun fashioned by operations of the Holy Spirit, and subject only to the Creator.  Mankind and the living creatures of the earth were fashioned by the Creator through the Word (we say, breath and utterance).  The Sabbath was acknowledged before the first Jew appeared in the earth, and long before the covenant of Moses.  Because those who wandered, and finally entered the Promised Land did faithfully maintain the various cycles that pertain to the Sabbath, there should be no quarrel or question as to the occasion for Sabbath observance.  As sanctified, we understand that the Sabbath has been purified and set apart for divine use.  While many speak of the Sabbath as a period of time and a day of rest from divine activity, Sabbath is more correctly understood as a stage of divine communion and fellowship with undivided focus upon all Creation.  See again Genesis 2:  1-3, Exodus 20:  8-11, Leviticus 23:  3 and Deuteronomy 5:  13-15, KJV.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:   But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.  Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head.  But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head:  for that is even all one as if she were shaven.  For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn:  but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.  For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God:  but the woman is the glory of the man.  For the man is not of the woman:  but the woman of the man.  Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man.  For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels.  Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.  For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God.  (1st Corinthians 11:  3-12, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Worship Wear? (01/23/2014); Relating to GOD? (11/05/2013); Does Satan Know? (11/06/2013); (Attending Church? (11/12/2012); A Holy Kiss? (11/13/2012); Christian Modesty (10/15/2012); The Meek Will Inherit (10/16/2012); Why Clothing? (10/15/2010); Known by GOD? (10/16/2010)

 

“Richard”, here are a few points to consider that are in agreement with Christian belief, yet, are not always completely and correctly practiced:

(1.)  The use of prayer caps, shawls, yarmulke, and other head gear by males are associated with the lifestyles and worship among Orthodox and Conservative Jews.  For that reason, many Christians feel persons who observe those practices are foreign, hostile, and unreceptive to the New Covenant in Jesus.

(2.)  The Apostle Paul commanded Gentiles and Jews of the early church to focus less upon ones physical appearance, and more upon the content of ones spirit.  Concern should be more upon the inner than the outward adornment.  Men are not to pray or prophesy—serve as official spokespersons sent from GOD within the congregation—with their heads covered.  Similarly, women are not to pray, or comfort, edify, exhort (we say, prophesy)—as spokespersons from GOD sent to the body of believers—with their heads uncovered.  For many, knowledge and obedience on this point became a key, or sign for recognizing false prophets.

(3.)  Given the spiritual status whereby husbands and wives, men and women, are joined as a single entity before GOD (i.e., a pair having one name, such as Adam), when the female has no hat or prayer cloth the male is understood as a covering for the female; and the male may cover the female’s head with the palm of his hand.

There is a lot more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Women are taught that there is to be “power on their heads.”  Their heads should be covered when they pray as an acknowledgment of the angels—however, not as worship of the angels.  Often, angelic messengers and servants to the Most High are those who will carry out and perform the tasks necessary for a woman’s prayers to be heard and answered.  Consider again, the visitations concerning the birth of John the Baptist, and the announcement to the Virgin Mary that she would bear a child.).  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your meekness and faith.

For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb.  I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made:  marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.  (Psalms 139:  13-14, KJV)

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/28/2014) Divine Sleep

Among the topics, today, are death, incarnation, and divine rest.  Also, there is more on the spirit content of Scripture.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “Mario” (Level 4 with 2,909 points, a member since September 27, 2006) posted the following:

 

Does God ever Sleep, Or Does He Just Rest?

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  The Nature of Scripture (03/27/2014)—(5.)  Because there is spiritual breadth, clarity, coherence, continuity, depth, active process, and necessary all-encompassing scale, believers are able to speak of the holy writings as a “living word” from GOD.  The Scriptures are to reside within the consciousness of believers as the foundation for their personal truth as followers of Jesus Christ, and is no less essential to human awareness and comprehension than the frameworks of time and space.  While knowledge of the Scriptures is to expand, grow, and ripen (we say, mature), the focus is not upon analysis, intellect, logic, mental functions (e.g., imagination, memorization, recall), reason, and theorizing.  Divine spirit content within the believer is to be amplified, directed, nourished, and supplemented.  A partnership for flesh and spirit is called forth that further establishes mankind in the image of GOD, and as the most unique expression for acknowledgment and worship of GOD throughout the universe.  See again Psalms 119:  97-106, 142, 144, 160 and Mark 4:  1-25, KJV.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane:  and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray.  And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy;  And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death:  tarry ye here, and watch.  And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.  And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me:  nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.  And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour?  Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.  The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.  (Mark 14:  32-38, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  To Keep It Holy (02/23/2014); 7 “Godly” Sins? (02/24/2014); Jesus Rose? (11/08/2013); About Sabbath (10/16/2013); We Shall Behold Him (10/17/2013); Must We Really Die? (05/13/2013); Can GOD Die? (05/14/2013); The Church as a Bride? (05/15/2013); Understanding Hell (01/09/2013); The Golden Age? (01/10/2013)

 

“Mario”, here are some important points on divine rest and sleep that have helped many Christian believers avoid error and spiritual confusion:

(1.)  GOD is a spirit who has put forth existence and life for created beings and living creatures as well as the spheres for their activity and interaction.  GOD is not a substance such as cloud, fog, mist, smoke or steam that are all made up of material particles.  GOD appears to sentient beings as active and present by using aspects of living process such as awareness, desire, intent, purpose, and will.  The makeup of GOD is inseparable spirit matter (where one feature appears, all are present).  Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(2.)  Eternal GOD engages Creation through multiple divine operations such as atonement, baptism (death of ones inborn nature, rebirth having a divine nature), judgment, redemption, prayer, salvation, and sanctification.  Only when appearing as incarnate (having form as flesh and blood) does GOD require rest and sleep for the special balance that must be supplied to optimize exercise and work, and to restore physical energy.

(3.)  The Bible does not speak of GOD sleeping, or the divine consciousness (we say, the mind of GOD) being temporarily disengaged, “shut down,” or unfocused as with created beings and living creatures.  Where divine rest is spoken of, believers are to understand a shift in activity that follows completion of some phase or stage in works that are on a cosmic scale.  

There is a lot more to be said, correctly applied, thoroughly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Life is GOD’s intent, and death is GOD’s tool.  Death is spoken of as “sleep” to indicate that divine controls are in place limiting the duration and outcomes of death.  GOD will make a “wake up call” to all the dead (we say, resurrect, restore life for the purpose of judgment).  Within the full GODhead, the Almighty continues using the form of a human body in the person of Jesus, that is both immortal and incorruptible.  Jesus will not sleep or die again; and will endure as everlasting and permanent.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.  (1st Corinthians 16:  13, KJV)

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC