(02/12/2020) The Meaning Of “Persecution”

 

Today, guidance and thoughts are shared on oppression, persecution, and suffering endured by followers of Jesus Christ. Spiritual discernment must be used to obtain relief from persecution, and to recognize and respond to the victory of Jesus Christ over persecution. Governments may operate as a godlike, invincible, all powerful, unseen actor. Persecution occurs as a conflict among two or more powerful belief systems (e.g., a religious and a government power). More than simply bribery, petty crimes, dishonest behavior, and misrepresentation by individual sinners who work in government should come into view, for during persecution official policies and procedures are altered in order to systematically destroy and suppress alternative belief systems. As a form of belief system themselves, nations and states are vulnerable to manipulation by religious powers because, only by abiding in obedience and genuine respect to godly law do nations escape confusion, self-destruction, ruin, and sin. The Constitution of the United States extends freedom of conscience to those acknowledging Jesus Christ as their Savior as well as to those who are atheists, to disbelievers in Christianity, to Satanists, and to those committed to other belief systems and forms of faith. Even so, all Americans are held to the same standards for co-existence, peaceful exchange, public order, and shared respect. When Christians focus more on tribulation spoken of in prophecy, rather than on the soon coming of Christ, many are quick to sound an alarm against persecution. Developing Christians, and those who are not members of the church, complain and make false accusations that the church is now enduring persecution and suffering; and they protest that the church will not be able to survive within the present World system that relies on carnal reason, philosophy, science, secular knowledge, technology, and violence. While the church is to be vigilant, life experience on the earth demands that the living regularly engage in meaningful activity, be nourished, work, and rest. That we exist within communities composed of multiple ethnic groups, of those who use different languages, and of those on varying levels of economic, intellectual, and social growth is not a condition of oppression and persecution. That we as individuals are not immediately rewarded or shown favor for every act of kindness we perform; that we encounter seasons of hardship; that we must go to school and pay for education, tools, and training; that we are required to work long hours; and will be held accountable for finding and maintaining necessary food, shelter, and clean water for ourselves, family, or other companions are not examples of persecution or suffering. Neither is it persecution that many of us come under obligation to fulfill unpleasant duties; are pressured to divulge secrets and speak truth continually; and may daily come under various forms of challenge, judgment, review and testing. It is written: Galatians 4: 28-29, King James Version (KJV): 28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. 29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined. For the wicked boasteth of his heart’s desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth. The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts. His ways are always grievous; thy judgments are far above out of his sight: as for all his enemies, he puffeth at them. He hath said in his heart, I shall not be moved: for I shall never be in adversity. His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and fraud: under his tongue is mischief and vanity. He sitteth in the lurking places of the villages: in the secret places doth he murder the innocent: his eyes are privily set against the poor. He lieth in wait secretly as a lion in his den: he lieth in wait to catch the poor: he doth catch the poor, when he draweth him into his net. He croucheth, and humbleth himself, that the poor may fall by his strong ones. He hath said in his heart, God hath forgotten: he hideth his face; he will never see it. Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up thine hand: forget not the humble. (Psalms 10: 2-12, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Kings, Popes, Priests, Prophets? (09/22/2019); Suffering Among the Saved (03/12/2019); Divine Fruit From Suffering? (12/19/2018); An Account of Persecution (12/03/2018); Fear Them Not Therefore (12/29/2017); Testing and Divine Process (06/12/2017); A Price for Religious Liberty? (06/30/2015)

 

Cases of persecution on the earth must be tried in the higher courts of heaven. Ordinarily, we think of government and religion as contrary to one another, and like oil and water, should not be mixed. In the same way “hate crimes” are easy to recognize, yet are very difficult to prosecute in courts on the earth, government damage by offenses against divinity and from “persecution” may be strongly felt by Christian believers and throughout a community of faith, yet, credible cases and claims demanding relief are difficult to bring before the courts maintained among mankind. Mature Christian believers acknowledge persecution as more than simple human bullying, meddling, incompetence, or hidden interpersonal conflict anchored in the meanness, exaggerated pride, and selfishness existing between individuals who are known to one another. During periods of persecution, confusion, deceit, distrust, fear, helplessness, and hopelessness may prevail. Thrusts that on surface are acceptable, justified and legitimate are made against the continued existence of divine law, against operations of the Holy Spirit, and against the church as a living sacred presence.

When there is persecution, a strong religious coalition influences, manipulates, and uses human government as a tool to suppress the doctrine, growth, and practice of other religious groups. Persecution is a form of widespread lawlessness that encourages bias, despair, discrimination, inequality, irreverence, prejudice, and racism. To disrupt ongoing operations of a targeted assembly, the government is used to cover up and disguise malfeasance and fraud, decree malicious legislation, authorize excessive law enforcement practices, pursue espionage, and seize the belongings and property of others. Individuals in positions of authority, leadership and trust within the targeted groups may be assassinated, corrupted, incarcerated, publicly tried and executed, slandered or tortured, and their families may be divided and separated. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Dietrick Haddon with Donnie McClurkin:

(1.) Matthew 5: 10-12, King James Version (KJV): 10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

(2.) 2^nd Timothy 3: 12, KJV: 12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

(3.) Acts 13: 49-50, KJV: 49 And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region. 50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.

(4.) Ephesians 6: 10-13, KJV: 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0GNf6haCIA.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/09/2019) Having the Divine Perspective

 

Today, reply is on Christian believers having the divine perspective (i.e., being able to see the same sacred changes and divine process within themselves that divinity will see through the operations of judgment and Spirit). Every Christian believer comes to discern and recognize where they themselves are located within the sacred point of view and divine perspective. A confession that the divine nature is present within ones own life is not the result of brooding, introspection, self-examination, and efforts for self-improvement. Despite affliction, hardship, sickness and suffering, many Christians will affirm that the truth is certain and indisputable: divinity nonetheless is operating within their lives today. Proclaiming the authority and authenticity of the Scriptures, they declare: God said it; I believe it; that settles it. Awareness of invisible, unseen divinity being active and present within ones life requires a fresh endowment of imparted spirit substance from the makeup of GOD along with the development and maturity of ones spiritual consciousness: “You must be born again;” and those “born again” must “grow up again.” Balance, consistency, impartiality, and stability increasingly must operate within the many aspects of a believer such as their expectations, their lifestyle, purposes, and daily routines. It is written: Romans 8: 15-17, King James Version (KJV): 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. The fighter in the Religion and Spirituality public forum at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “✞ 2 …hunter” (Level 7 with 45,461 points, a member since August 18, 2011) posted the following:

 

How does one know that they are growing spiritually?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 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, 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: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. 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. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3: 7-14, King James Version, KJV:

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Areas Where Change Appears? (10/24/2018); Claiming To Know GOD? (09/14/2018); The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); Certainty, Conviction and Faith (01/05/2018); Diversity and Divine Purpose (08/28/2016); Knowing? (05/24/2015); The Scriptures and Perfection? (10/27/2014); To See With New Eyes (11/06/2012); A Life Companion? (11/07/2012)

 

“✞ 2 …hunter”, because Christian believers are in an ongoing divine process of transformation where their consciousness and self-will are being permanently changed so they will eternally exist as companions to divinity, their present “knowing” and “self-awareness” also undergoes shifts and transitions. Rather than rely on behavioral, carnal, material and social “evidence”, developing believers eventually depend on such elements as certainty of divine righteousness; conformity to divine word appearing in such forms as holy writings, divine law, proclamation, promise, prophecy and revelation; and conviction that immutable, unchanging principles are continuing as standards that describe the life condition of those following Christ through operations of divinity that can not be influenced or interrupted by finite actors and human events. Consider again the following that uses familiar language from the Bible:

1. Philippians 2: 5-11, King James Version (KJV): 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. Romans 8: 28-30, KJV: 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/05/2019) Present With The Lord

 

Today, reply is on conflicts that regularly appear within the course of Christian ministry, language from the Scriptures, and personal thoughts from the Apostle Paul. In sharing reports of his present condition and the challenges he was facing as a servant of Jesus Christ, Paul confessed that he now was experiencing the holy boldness both to face a martyr’s death, and to appear in tribunal before the judgment seat of Christ. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “jane” (Level 1 with 1 point, a member since May 15, 2019) posted the following:

 

What the Bible meaning Absent from the body and to be present with the Lord ?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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. 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. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. (Romans 12: 1-3, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Prophets After Jesus Christ? (06/04/2019); Why Paul Observed Tradition (07/10/2018); A Threat Against Judaism (07/17/2017); A True Apostle? (09/20/2015); Saul of Tarsus (03/26/2014); The Nature of Scripture (03/27/2014); Suddenly Absent, Suddenly Present (03/31/2013); A Family Affair? (04/01/2013)

 

“jane”, many Christian believers understand the language “present with the Lord” is describing when a believer is received by the Lord through death and final judgment to continue dwelling and servicing divinity within the celestial precincts, courts, and mansions of heaven. Those fully present with the Lord are believed in the same relationship with GOD, the same new flesh, and the same new life through resurrection as the Lord Jesus. To be “absent from the body” is understood as no longer being alive in flesh on the earth; and also means to no longer be available to minister to the body of Christ (i.e., the church; the community of believers) through devices that are carnal, material, physical, and social. In two of his epistles, the Apostle Paul expresses a sense of conflict and uncertainty about continuing his own service to the church that has included multiple confrontations with mobs, imprisonment, scourging, and suffering. On the one hand, Paul does not desire death; he is preferring to be with Jesus in the direct presence of GOD the Father, and desires to perform higher, holier works guided by Jesus, the divine High Priest. On the other hand, Paul understands the peculiar needs of the church demand that he and others continue at the various works they have been given through the Holy Ghost; and the Apostle continues to exhort the brethren to commitment, determination, and zeal. There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, Philippians 1: 20-30, King James Version (KJV): 20 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. 23 For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: 24 Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. 25 And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; 26 That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again. 27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. 29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; 30 Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(05/30/2019) The Holy Spirit Comforts?

Tina L. Connor Think On These Things… (image reference below).

 

Today, reply is on the action and work of the Holy Spirit whom Jesus Christ sends to his church on the earth to continue the ministry of redemption and salvation. Jesus spoke of the divine agent he would send to the church from the Godhead as “the Comforter,” suggesting the primary role of the Spirit would be to help the flock endure the loss of the Good Shepherd. Other names given the Spirit (e.g., the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Grace, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth), make it clear that just as there are many gifts bestowed by the Spirit, there are many tasks and sacred works carried out by the Holy Spirit beyond addressing bereavement, uncertainty, and the absence of the Lord. The active presence himself from the Father and Son was the power the church needed to complete the work of displaying the image of Christ, global evangelism, and spreading the Gospel to all the world, fulfilling the Great Commission. It is written: Matthew 10: 16-22, King James Version (KJV): 16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. 17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; 18 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. 19 But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. 20 For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. 21 And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. 22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Spirituality and Religion who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

 

What does it mean that the Holy Spirit comforts you?

John 14:16-17

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus. And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. (Acts 4: 29-33, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Evidence Is Spirit (05/29/2019); Blaspheming the Holy Spirit (05/08/2019); Believers Must Receive Gifts (09/30/2018); The Comfort Through Christ? (01/13/2017); Comfort? (09/06/2014); We Become Comforters? (07/19/2014); The End of Pain? (06/10/2013); Night Cometh (06/11/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, to obtain mercy sinners must enter into judgment; to obtain comfort, believers must enter into unselfish service and suffering. In the same way the Father and the Holy Spirit encouraged, reinforced and supported the ministry of divinity appearing on the earth using form and flesh (we say, the Incarnation as Jesus Christ), the Holy Spirit is the primary agent and representative of Jesus Christ as the High Priest in heaven who continues to build up, edify, and nourish the living body of divinity on the earth that is the church. Multiple sacred works are being performed to complete the transformation whereby created beings and living creatures will exist as immortal, incorruptible companions of the divine fullness (i.e., the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ are to receive a fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word). Inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD is provided that establishes such elements as balance, faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, wrath against sin, and zeal.

Atonement, forgiveness, judgment, eternal life and many of the works of GOD to recover and preserve Creation require that mankind receive deposits of spirit substance and perform works of tarrying, waiting, and witnessing sacred events that are to be completed by GOD. The comfort mankind must receive from divinity goes beyond the human condition as carnal, material, political, and social. More than hugs, kisses, drying our tears, and personal responses of affection are needed. Thus, divinity uses the frameworks of time and space when communicating, exchanging, and interacting with mankind; however, human life must be acknowledged as brief, episodic, lacking continuity, and unstable. Divine mechanisms are being shared that permit mortal beings to operate in relationship with GOD as though the frequent interruptions of appetite, emotion, sickness, and death do not occur. Included are assurance, atonement, covenant, dynasty, family, forgiveness, inheritance, longevity, pledge, prophecy, rebirth, resurrection from the dead, vision, and revelation.

Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 2^nd Corinthians 1: 2-7, King James Version (KJV): 2 Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.  5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. 6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 7 And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.

2. 2^nd Corinthians 7: 1-4, KJV: 1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man. 3 I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you. 4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. 1^st Thessalonians 4: 13-18, KJV: 13 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. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 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. 16 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: 17 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. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

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THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/12/2019) Suffering Among the Saved

 

Today, reply is on forms of suffering among the saved. Having to be accountable for routine duties and obligations required for development and survival should not be regarded as suffering. Included are having to secure food and shelter; having to maintain ones health; and having to complete aging, maturing, and mortality. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

How is the suffering of the saved?

Is that true that the saved suffer even before be saved?

if a person is not persecuted and suffer that means that she’s not saved?

What to do when the person is suffering?

What’s the difference of the saved suffering and the wicked suffering?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. (1^st Peter 5: 8-11, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Fruit From Suffering? (12/19/2018); Salvation Must Be Eternal (11/06/2018); Believers Must Become “Ripe” (09/02/2018); Bereavement, Death and Suffering (11/10/2017); Divine Wrath Against Sin? (10/17/2017); Sons of GOD Suffer? (09/19/2017); Existence, Mortality and GOD? (08/31/2017)

 

“Anonymous”, suffering does not appear among the saved as condemnation and punishment. Here are examples and Scripture points that describe forms of suffering that believers may encounter as aspects of their growth, sacred service, and spiritual training:

1. Chastening/Correction — Revelation 3: 17-22, King James Version (KJV): 17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve, that thou mayest see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 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. 22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

2. Prophetic Demonstration — Ezekiel 4: 1-8, KJV: 1 Thou also, son of man, take thee a tile, and lay it before thee, and portray upon it the city, even Jerusalem: 2 And lay siege against it, and build a fort against it, and cast a mount against it; set the camp also against it, and set battering rams against it round about. 3 Moreover take thou unto thee an iron pan, and set it for a wall of iron between thee and the city: and set thy face against it, and it shall be besieged, and thou shalt lay siege against it. This shall be a sign to the house of Israel. 4 Lie thou also upon thy left side, and lay the iniquity of the house of Israel upon it: according to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon it thou shalt bear their iniquity. 5 For I have laid upon thee the years of their iniquity, according to the number of the days, three hundred and ninety days: so shalt thou bear the iniquity of the house of Israel. 6 And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy right side, and thou shalt bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year. 7 Therefore thou shalt set thy face toward the siege of Jerusalem, and thine arm shall be uncovered, and thou shalt prophesy against it. 8 And, behold, I will lay bands upon thee, and thou shalt not turn thee from one side to another, till thou hast ended the days of thy siege.

3. Persecution — Acts 16: 16-24, KJV: 16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: 17 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. 18 And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. 19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers, 20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, 21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans. 22 And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. 23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely: 24 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

4. Chance — Judges 11: 30-36, KJV: 30 And Jephthah vowed a vow unto the LORD, and said, If thou shalt without fail deliver the children of Ammon into mine hands, 31 Then it shall be, that whatsoever cometh forth of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the children of Ammon, shall surely be the LORD’s, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering. 32 So Jephthah passed over unto the children of Ammon to fight against them; and the LORD delivered them into his hands. 33 And he smote them from Aroer, even till thou come to Minnith, even twenty cities, and unto the plain of the vineyards, with a very great slaughter. Thus the children of Ammon were subdued before the children of Israel. 34 And Jephthah came to Mizpeh unto his house, and, behold, his daughter came out to meet him with timbrels and with dances: and she was his only child; beside her he had neither son nor daughter. 35 And it came to pass, when he saw her, that he rent his clothes, and said, Alas, my daughter! thou hast brought me very low, and thou art one of them that trouble me: for I have opened my mouth unto the LORD, and I cannot go back. 36 And she said unto him, My father, if thou hast opened thy mouth unto the LORD, do to me according to that which hath proceeded out of thy mouth; forasmuch as the LORD hath taken vengeance for thee of thine enemies, even of the children of Ammon.

5. Transition — Genesis 31: 38-44, KJV: 38 This twenty years have I been with thee; thy ewes and thy she goats have not cast their young, and the rams of thy flock have I not eaten. 39 That which was torn of beasts I brought not unto thee; I bare the loss of it; of my hand didst thou require it, whether stolen by day, or stolen by night. 40 Thus I was; in the day the drought consumed me, and the frost by night; and my sleep departed from mine eyes. 41 Thus have I been twenty years in thy house; I served thee fourteen years for thy two daughters, and six years for thy cattle: and thou hast changed my wages ten times. 42 Except the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had been with me, surely thou hadst sent me away now empty. God hath seen mine affliction and the labour of my hands, and rebuked thee yesternight. 43 And Laban answered and said unto Jacob, These daughters are my daughters, and these children are my children, and these cattle are my cattle, and all that thou seest is mine: and what can I do this day unto these my daughters, or unto their children which they have born? 44 Now therefore come thou, let us make a covenant, I and thou; and let it be for a witness between me and thee.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 6. Martyrdom/Sacrifice — Mark 6: 21-29, KJV: 21 And when a convenient day was come, that Herod on his birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee; 22 And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him, the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee. 23 And he sware unto her, Whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of my kingdom. 24 And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist. 25 And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist. 26 And the king was exceeding sorry; yet for his oath’s sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her. 27 And immediately the king sent an executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he went and beheaded him in the prison, 28 And brought his head in a charger, and gave it to the damsel: and the damsel gave it to her mother. 29 And when his disciples heard of it, they came and took up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/08/2019) Love Shown By Divinity

 

Today, reply is on the love shown by divinity being spoken of as “blind love.” Unlike infatuation and “puppy love,” divine love is a spirit substance that appears and is manifest only by those having an endowment from divinity that includes discipline, integrity of person, maturity, self mastery, truth, and unselfishness. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

 

If God is love, and love is blind, then is God blind?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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? (1^st John 4: 18-20, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Revelation of Mercy (01/28/2019); Holy Boldness and Humility (10/04/2018); Chosen Through Sacred Process (09/06/2018); Consequences and Divine Love (07/05/2018); To Define “Godly Love” (08/20/2017); The Practice of Love (07/27/2017); Saying “GOD is Love” (12/18/2016); Herein Is True Love (10/21/2016)

 

“Anonymous”, among mature Christian believers, the love shown to mankind by divinity (we also say, divine fullness; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is more than merely affection, emotion and feeling, for the makeup and process of GOD displays active presence, eternal purpose, and sovereign will. Thus, elements from the exalted personhood, divine law, and sacred substance of GOD describe the divine manifestation of divine love. Included are accountability, admonitions and warnings, commitment, faithfulness, forbearance, forgiveness, righteous judgment, impartiality, mercy, obedience, restraint, sacrifice, stability, unselfishness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. To “know God” is to be aware of the exchange and interaction of divine spirit substance within oneself as well as within others. The love of GOD may be called “blind love” because divine love is shared without bias, demands for payment and recompense, partiality, and prejudice. Even so, divine judgment requires that the living acknowledge that GOD is selective imparting life essence (we also say, breath; spirit; word) to mankind that is made from inseparable aspects of the divine makeup (e.g., longsuffering, meekness, oneness without sameness, purity). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 1^st John 4: 7-9, King James Version (KJV): 7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

2. Revelation 1: 4-6, KJV: 4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; 5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

3. Romans 5: 6-11, KJV: 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Romans 13: 8-10, KJV: 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/10/2019) Should Medicine Endorse Healing?

 

Today, thoughts are shared on how medicine must be an instrument and tool from the divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), rather than an obstacle to the belief of those being called to serve through Jesus Christ. Last year around this time, I saw an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) on staff within a university hospital here in Washington, DC, the Nation’s Capital. I was given a prescription for eyeglasses, and scheduled for a follow-up session later this month. I have been rendered nearly blind for the last three weeks, however, and thought to arrange for an earlier appointment. When I arrived for examination, I was told I would have to be admitted to the hospital, and stay indefinitely; that I must submit to multiple extractions of blood; and that, based on CRT and MRI scans, my treatment would also address an inherited condition that (to my knowledge) has never appeared in me or others in my family (one of the University areas of expertise). Thus, readers are asked to consider the following:

 

Why would a Christian go to a doctor when there is a problem in his flesh that requires healing?

The Bible plainly states that the confidence, security, and well-being of a believer comes by the workings of spiritual process, and the use of spirit instruments and tools that include confession, fasting, forgiveness, importuning, praise, and prayer.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1^st Corinthians 6: 19-20, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Dominion Over Nature (02/04/2019); Hezekiah Called For Judgment (12/09/2018); Nehushtan, The Brass Serpent (10/26/2018); Doctrine, Dropsy, and Sin (09/07/2018); Sacred Operations By GOD (04/12/2018); Demonstrations of Spirit Truth (02/28/2018); Another Form of Blindness (07/23/2017)

 

Healing is a restoration of full functioning and the operating of the flesh in accordance with mechanical, natural and spiritual law that occurs through interactions of faith and the many other inseparable aspects of spirit substance imparted to mankind that reside within the makeup of divinity (e.g., forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, wrath against sin). There must be acceptance and acknowledgment of healing by medical science with its practices and strategies that address health care and well-being, for the medical practitioner will be held accountable by GOD for their correct application and use of sacred knowledge, and what they account as their own legitimate authority.

Because suffering that appears through carnal, material, and social events also is a divine tool to authenticate, challenge, exercise, and strengthen ones endowment of faith and the uninterrupted expression of hope, many medical practitioners argue that: (1) Spiritual things are self-contradictory; (2) have value only as expressions of emotion, psychological phenomena, and superstition; (3) should be restricted to spiritual rather than physical things (e.g., broken-hearts; ones own past; family and marital relationships; world peace); are neither scientifically reliable nor valid; and should be avoided. The clarity, precision, and simplicity of academic and secular knowledge, science, and technology should be preferred.

Just as doctors and surgeons can not foretell future events, nor consistently mandate the outcomes of their own actions, Christian ministers and their followers can not predict the future, nor command that the outcome of events be the expression of their own desire and self-will. At best, there can be the recognition and application of tried and tested patterns that become familiar through experience, practice, and study. Thus, knowing ABC is followed by EFG, one may correctly state, XYZ is coming. For developing Christians, the cause and origin for various actions and events within their life are to be discerned and acknowledged on the basis of their agreement with what has been recorded as divine prerogative, grace, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The workings of devils (we say, deception, lies, slander) will repeatedly negate and oppose the pronouncements from God, in effect, declaring once more, thou shalt not surely die for sin and transgression of the expressed will of GOD that is sacred law).

The testimony and witness from those who have experienced healing is not be dismissed as chance, coincidence, foolishness, and hypocrisy. Thus, I bear a cicatrix on my right arm over the blood vessel that did not gush forth when I was slashed to the bone by someone using a straight-razor. It also is the truth when I speak of being diagnosed decades ago by different doctors who agreed that I had migratory arthritis, that it could not be cured, and that it would randomly and suddenly change the location of severe pain throughout my entire body. A new drug, (Motrin) was prescribed, and I was told, I would have to rely on the drug for the rest of my life. Rather than yield, I continued insisting on the things of my belief as a Christian.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, it is plain sense that doctors and all the others in the practice of medicine are not to be ignorant regarding healing and its place in the life of those they offer to serve. Before wasting the time of those seeking health solutions, or offering a false hope, those in the medical profession—wh0 are part of the man-made system for survival and understanding that is called the World—are to acknowledge the limitations of their professions, and are to avoid complaining against, condemning, and opposing divinity. The effectiveness and value of professional health care also rests on a platform of mutual respect and other intangibles. There must be a profound level of sound judgment on the part of every healthcare professional (e.g., hospital administrators; custodians; orderlies; nurses; doctors; surgeons). There must be communication, exchange, and sharing of insights and information among medical workers and with the intended beneficiaries (e.g., clients, families, patients, the general public) of the healthcare system. Most importantly, there must be multiple relationships marked by the approval, endorsement and validation of others as well as the extension of trust to things assumed, elements from other belief systems that impact the practice of medicine along with things otherwise unknown and unseen that may require recognition and creative responses.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

 

(12/19/2018) Divine Fruit From Suffering?

 

Today, the reply is on the benefit from suffering in the life of Christian believers. Christians are sinners who are yielding to divinity through repentance to exist as the new creation of Jesus Christ. For Christians, suffering is to lose its power to confuse, debase, and drive the living to despair. Their inborn spirit is permanently altered through rebirth that permits them to exist as vessels of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. Where the followers of Christ will continue to live on the earth as developing believers they also will continue to endure having carnal, material, and social needs. However, Christians are provided with divine tools that permit overcoming the emotional, psychological and spiritual obstacles imposed by such circumstances as bereavement, loss, misery, and wretchedness. Fresh endowments of spirit content from GOD allow discovery, freshness, and gradual growth. Those who overcome through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit will continue to display holy boldness, certainty, joy, insight, peace, strength, and more. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality, who uses the ID “Elixir” (Level 1 with 163 points, a member since November 27, 2018) posted the following:

 

Is suffering an important part of being human?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (Romans 8: 14-21, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Known By His Fruit (11/04/2018); His Suffering At Gethsemane (03/12/2018); The Spirit of Meekness (12/15/2017); Bereavement, Death and Suffering (11/10/2017); Sons of GOD Suffer? (09/19/2017); Spirit Content From GOD? (09/26/2016); Suffering for Suicide? (12/12/2012); The Price of Humanity? (12/13/2012)

 

“Elixir”, salvation for Christian believers is accomplished only through sacred events and works performed by divinity. Even so, once its meaning and value is transformed after the Spirit, suffering among the living can make visible many benefits and gifts from GOD, who is invisible. The control and power over the living exercised by death, pain, and uncertainty must be revealed as the outcome from operations of sin, yet, are subject to divine dominion. The living must make efforts that acknowledge the human predicament, and that discern divinity as an active presence within the life. The content and process of mind within created beings and living creatures must be reconfigured and shaped in accordance with the operations of inseparable spirit substance that exists as the makeup of GOD. Included are faith, holiness, incorruptibility, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Human consciousness and self-will must become responsive to the personhood, eternal purpose, and sovereign will of the Creator. In addition to performing good works and obeying the law of GOD, the fullness of ones humanity will be displayed through the aspects of maturity (e.g., accountability, balance, commitment, completeness, consistency, integrity, sobriety, stability) and spiritual godliness will be called forth, applied, and expressed in the endurance of hardship and suffering, meeting diverse life challenges, responding to “growing pains,” and overcoming life reversals. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Romans 8: 22, King James Version (KJV): 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.

2. Galatians 5: 19-25, KJV: 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

3. Hebrews 5: 8-9, KJV: 8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; 9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 1^st Peter 2: 19-21, KJV: 19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. 21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: 24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. 25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

 

(10/07/2018) Evil From The LORD

 

Today, reply is on the divine creation of evil as well as the evil generated and maintained by disbelievers and sinners. Like sacred events (we say, miracles) that conform to their own set of divine laws, evil that carries out and fulfills divine intent does not violate divine order, natural law, or sacred law. The two different origins of evil put forth different circumstances and conditions, and display different forms, operations, eternal purpose, and sacred substance. Many mistakenly entertain the thought that evil and wickedness can not exist in the presence of divine holiness, majesty, and purity; and that GOD may not exist where evil has control and power. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appears) posted the following:

 

Why do people who don’t believe in God say that if he was real there wouldn’t be evil?

If God was real why would he have to live up to someone’s standards? If he’s our creator he can do what ever he wants to us he doesn’t need anyone approval. Do people not believe cause they can’t stand the fact of something being more powerful than them?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand. And they covet fields, and take them by violence; and houses, and take them away: so they oppress a man and his house, even a man and his heritage. Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, against this family do I devise an evil, from which ye shall not remove your necks; neither shall ye go haughtily: for this time is evil. (Micah 2: 1-3, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Condemned By The Bible? (06/08/2018); Divine Devices for Judgment (06/04/2018); With A Divine Eye (05/02/2018); How Is Flesh Evil? (10/28/2016); All Is Vanity? (07/28/2015); Evil Is Not Sin And Wickedness? (12/09/2014); Divine Goodness? (12/10/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, many things developing Christian believers will see among sinners and those obeying their own flesh express vanity (the absence of spirit content from GOD), spiritual confusion, and exaggerated pride. The evil they promote does not express awe (i.e., acknowledge the awesomeness of GOD; fear of the lord), and is contrary to all existence, life, and divine order. The three persons who exist as one GOD (the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) have used Creation to display their oneness without sameness, sacred authority, divine prerogative, and sovereign will. Evil as a creation of GOD is not the same as the evil that describes human character and makeup, or evil displayed by mankind as iniquity, sin, and wickedness. Where evil is a divine tool, evil may appear as calamity, disaster, suffering, or “the unexpected” and “the unknown.” Evil will be an overturning or sudden reversal of human circumstances and conditions to establish the correct acknowledgment that only GOD may supply many of humanity’s continuing needs; that mankind also must fulfill eternal purposes; and that the living must continually respond to the active presence (we also say, breath; life essence; spirit; word) who is GOD. To have a complete and correct knowledge of divinity requires a person become transformed by the operations of GOD in their life. We say, You must be born again!, however, those “born again” must “grow up again” and become mature as vessels of divine spirit. A sinner must receive a new inner makeup that includes spirit substance from the Creator. Inseparable aspects from GOD should appear such as commitment, discernment, faith, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Isaiah 5: 21-22, King James Version (KJV): 20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 21 Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!

(2.) Ecclesiastes 8: 11-13, KJV: 11 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. 12 Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him: 13 But it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God.

(3.) Genesis 6: 5-6, KJV: 5 And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6 And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.

(4.) Galatians 5: 19-23, KJV: 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) James 1: 12-15, KJV: 12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. 13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/12/2018) Anything We Ask For?

 

Today, reply topics include authority, natural disaster, divine power, prayer, and the will of GOD. Few divine objectives are accomplished simply by believers expressing accord, agreement, and unity among themselves. Neither the will of a full congregation nor that of the full church are sufficient to alter or overturn the unchanging will of GOD. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “Matt85” (Level 4 with 4,274 points, a member since September 18, 2016) posted the following:

 

 

Will someone agree with me to pray this hurricane won’t reach land?

Jesus said: “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.”

So please agree with me.

Update: With the majority of your attitudes, you will never get round to agreeing for something. Agreeing means you really need to agree. To united in will. Yes an entire church of people can miss the point.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. (Acts 4: 31-33, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Gift(s) From GOD (04/08/2018); As An Anointed Body (10/04/2017); Storms to Punish America? (09/08/2017); From Dust Thou Art (09/07/2017); Existence, Mortality and GOD? (08/31/2017); Unless You Repent (03/05/2013); The Childhood of Jesus? (03/06/2013)

 

“Matt85”, as you know, prayer is not intended to manipulate, pressure GOD to make changes, or subordinate divinity; and the primary revelation by the Son of GOD has been so that mankind will acknowledge and extol the Father. Even so, in their beginnings and while they are developing, Christian believers often focus on the material, natural, and social world. In those stages of edification and growth, they also repeatedly dismiss the arguments from Scripture that the proper focus of mankind as the new creation of Jesus Christ is the eternal purpose, substance, and sacred operation of divinity, rather than our ongoing human infirmity.

Consistent with the truth that divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) contains all the inseparable aspects of spirit substance that will ever exist, becoming “born again” and the transformations of mankind through baptism, resurrection and the Second Coming (we also say, his appearing; the Advent; the harvest; the Rapture) must impart such features as faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Christians are encouraged to gather and ask for such spirit matter from the makeup of GOD; however, believers are not instructed to ask for anything and everything human appetite, consciousness, and self-will may fix on through desire, or for interruptions of earthly events and operations,

Many things in human experience are not designed, or intended to endure as expressions of divine will, and may only proceed or respond to mechanical sequences and natural laws. Thus the prayer for inner peace during a hurricane and the time of recovery to follow can be more appropriate than the prayer to stop, or turn the wind away. Our expectation (we say, hope) is most godly where we seek the application of spirit substance to accomplish change in aspects of sacred order that are not immutable and unchanging. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Romans 8: 5-9, King James Version (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.

(2.) Philippians 2: 2, KJV: 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.

(3.) Romans 8: 27-29, KJV: 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 1st John 5: 13-15, KJV: 13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC