(10/17/2020) Why So Many Churches?

Today, reply is on the operations of divinity as omnipresent, and why there are countless churches and houses of worship on the earth. Correctly understood, the church founded by Jesus Christ is not so much a material location within the frameworks of time and space as it is an ongoing spiritual relationship between the Creator and the created. Through finite, human church assemblies there is access for mankind to otherwise hidden and unseen sacred resources that must be received through discovery, gradual growth, ministry to others, sacred practice, mutual respect, study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and suffering. In the same way the New Jerusalem that now is being constructed in heaven will serve as a habitation for mankind upon the earth made new, the flesh of mankind is to exist as the new creation and a habitation of GOD through the Spirit. It is written: Ephesians 2: 11-22, King James Version (KJV): 11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: 17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Lol” (Level 2 with 638 point) posted the following:

If God is everywhere the why do people go to church ?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Thus saith the LORD, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest? For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the LORD: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word. He that killeth an ox is as if he slew a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, as if he cut off a dog’s neck; he that offereth an oblation, as if he offered swine’s blood; he that burneth incense, as if he blessed an idol. Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delighteth in their abominations. 4 I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not. 5 Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name’s sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed. (Isaiah 66: 1-5, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Place Of Meeting (04/08/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); Leadership By The Church (03/18/2020); Everywhere In The Universe? (10/14/2019); Justified By Church Attendance? (06/21/2019); Divine Presence and Spirit (01/18/2017); GOD Everywhere? (04/04/2014)

“Lol”, properly understood, church buildings exist as areas for regular assemblies and gatherings of developing and mature followers of Jesus Christ that are consecrated and set apart (we say, sanctified through prayer, unselfish service, and suffering). Christian beliefs pertain to the Creation of heaven and earth, the duration of existence and life as well as the possibilities for mankind to continue in an eternal relationship as a living companion to immortal, incorruptible, invisible divinity. The process and substance of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is spirit in its character, makeup, process and substance. Divinity has used human form and life-process to exist on the earth (as seen through their Incarnation as Jesus Christ). Even so, GOD only appears to created beings and living creatures as life essence (i.e., breath; spirit; utterance; word) that is diffuse, measureless, and without physical dimensions. GOD may not be influenced and manipulated by the living through finite human social behavior such as begging, deceit, and weeping, for divinity holds to immutable principles and sacred law that proclaim the integrity of GOD through attributes of faithfulness, holiness, oneness without sameness, and righteousness. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry demonstrating the cleansing and restoration to purity provided for the Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona, Spain:

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

(2.) 1^st Corinthians 3: 16-17, KJV: 16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

(3.) 1^st Corinthians 6: 19-20, KJV: 19 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? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Treble Lluis Travesett, Consecration of Sagrada Familia – Psalm 83 @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqBDE9HTz_E.) 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

(07/22/2020) Forgiveness is not DIY

 

Today, reply is on confession and forgiveness as sacred operations within the church performed by members of the body who are anointed, ordained, and sanctified. Believers are to accept accountability, perform specific duties, and continue as proactive on their own behalf as the people of Christ, however, believers also must agree that salvation, forgiveness, and other sacred practices in the church are not on the basis of do-it-yourself (DIY) and man-made methods.  Authentic and divinely lawful aspects of the full spirit
process and substance of the church can only appear through the
performance of covenant duty and unselfish service performed for one another by those who embody Jesus Christ. Correctly understood, all Christians are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and
likeness of Jesus Christ. Many Christian believers challenge and
resist clergy, hierarchy, and divine priesthood by insisting that
their own conscience, integrity, and merit in Christ must be
acknowledged as primary when their own salvation becomes a focus.
Many err because they covet authority, control, independence, and
separation; others encourage combativeness, comparison, competition, and condemnation. Even so, a priesthood on the earth modeled after that in heaven was provided as a divine blessing and gift to Adam that would manifest the cooperation of divine fullness with mankind.  In addition to sacrifice, expiation, and remission of sin, confession and forgiveness are among the works of priesthood, rather than the works of prophecy and revelation. It is written: Philippians 2:  2-8, King James Version (KJV): 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one
mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 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. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

 

 

 

Do you confess your sins to a priest? Did you know that is necessary for salvation?

God can forgive anything if you truly repent through confession.

 

 

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.  Do all things without murmurings and disputings:  That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; (Philippians 2: 12-15, KJV)

 

 

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Forgiveness Ministers Grace (07/20/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); Baptism Is Not DIY (05/28/2019); Let Us Reason Together (08/07/2019); Applying The Divine Standards (10/02/2018); Confessing Your Own Salvation? (03/02/2018); Prayer in Public? (02/24/2015)

 

 

 

“Anonymous”, within the church of Jesus Christ, many account the works of personal expression (e.g., confession, forgiveness, prayer, repentance) as
pertaining to love, prophecy and revelation, rather than to universal
order, sacred law, and priesthood. Confession and forgiveness are the outcome and result of grace, rather than ceremonies that declare condemnation and judgment.  In the same way justification and salvation are not matters of personal freedom or self-promotion, and must be completed by the workings of divinity, forgiveness for sin is not a matter of human affection, fellowship, kindness, and self-will (willpower).  Christians are to receive Jesus Christ as a divine High Priest who makes atonement for sin. Many mature Christian believers therefore agree that confession and forgiveness are most correctly acknowledged and practiced within the household of faith using an anointed priesthood, for there must be a transaction at the point where heaven and earth connect (i.e., a sacred altar; a consecrated table).  In addition to an openhearted, private conversation with divinity about ones own errors and transgressions, there must be an offering and application of spirit substance that include the atoning blood, character, and personhood of Jesus Christ as it resides within the priest.  Often, the concern for benefits and privileges from GOD (e.g., authority, blessing, freedom, power and rank) obscures the demands for celestial operations, divine order, sacred law, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. As a practice that makes present what we hope, those who are dedicated, disciplined, and mature through unselfish service, study of the holy writings, personal sufferings, and prayer should be entrusted as ministers to the body on behalf of those yet being built up and edified as developing believers. Consider the following that use language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot & Terry Talbot:

 

(1.)  Psalms 32: 1-2, King James Version (KJV): 1 Blessed is he whose
transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2 Blessed is the man unto
whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.

 

(2.)  Matthew 9: 2-8, KJV: 2 And, behold, they brought to him a man sick
of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. 3 And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth. 4 And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? 5 For whether is
easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk? 6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. 7 And he arose, and departed to his house. 8 But when the multitudes saw it, they
marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.

 

(3.)  Luke 7: 36-50, KJV: 36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that
he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to meat. 37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. 40 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. 41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors:  the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell
me therefore, which of them will love him most? 43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. 44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint:  but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

 

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually
apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7j10za_3gQ.) Even so, I
trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

 

Image downloaded 1:17 PM, July 22, 2020 @ https://internationalforgiveness.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/1176903925-there_is_no_love_without_forgiveness.jpg

 

 

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/17/2020) Uniting In The Struggle

A photograph showing George Floyd in an arrest confrontation with a police officer, May 25, 2020, Minneapolis, MN.

Today, I share the comment I wanted to post at FACEBOOK responding to Bishop Elect Marvin L. Winans Statement Against Racism from Perfecting Church (Detroit, MI) posted June 10, 2020, 3:18 PM. Daily, Jesus Christ taught the law and the prophets; and Jesus did not present himself as an heroic military or political figure seeking to expand his territory through conquest and guile. Even so, the Zealots and many among the multitude who had been fed and healed by Christ were preparing to force Jesus to accept a crown ripped from Herod through insurrection and overthrow. These supporters became specially dismayed by the Lord’s lack of outrage at recent tragedies forced by Rome upon the Galileans comparing it to what befell others in Jerusalem by chance (except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish). Those who yearned for Jesus as a prince and an earthly ruler misunderstood the character and nature of the peace and prosperity then being offered by divinity. Believers now must exercise discernment and vigilance to avoid making the same mistakes seen at the Savior’s first appearing. The concluding paragraph of the Bishop’s post (following below) struck me with great power. The many broadcast news and other presentations of recent arrest confrontation deaths across the Nation repeatedly show a single, isolated, victim having no one to turn to, and nowhere to run. Surely, good counsel to black teens, young adults, and even those who are seniors at this time is GET YOU SOMEBODY! Where you see the pattern developing (ABCDEFG, xyz IS COMING). Hit the pause button; freeze the action. Call for immediate assistance before any further action takes place. The crisis is not later at the police station, or in the action that will occur within the courtroom. While yet on the street, there is a need for clear information on options and possibilities for a suspect that police repeatedly have shown they are unable to provide; there is a need for simple agreements (handshakes) and assurances to resolve conflict that police are not authorized to provide. There is a need for impartial decision-making; there is a need for respect; there is a need for trust; and there is a need for unbiased witness. It is written: Romans 13: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 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.

I believe we should unite in this struggle for racial equity and justice. One such step is to become involved in the political process. Not just voting for a President, but your local government as well. The judges, prosecutors, mayor, city council. These positions have a more direct bearing on reigning in the injustices we see at the local level and work on improving your schools and communities.

THE GOLDEN ARROW: There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail. Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4: 8-12, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Law And The Prophets (06/10/2020); Elephant In The Room? (06/05/2020); The Nearness Of Kingdom (06/02/2020); Knowing The True Messiah (05/31/2020); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); Fulfillment of His Dream? (04/05/2017); Struggling? (05/11/2013); Through Much Tribulation (05/12/2013)

“Bishop Winans”, responding to your statement on racism recently published in the FACEBOOK public forum, sound counsel within the black community these days is don’t try to face challenges by the police alone, and when there are problems on the street, do not put yourself in the role of a fugitive. An important aspect of the arrest confrontation scenario has been the willingness of victims to operate while outnumbered, and as though they are unaware of the great danger they are being challenged to meet unassisted. For some, this is a matter of exaggerated pride; for some it is that they are guiltless; and for others, it is a misapplication and inaccurate understanding of the promises for civil freedom, free speech, etc. According to what has been displayed in multiple incidents, the police are not trained to “think on their feet.” Properly understood, guilt and innocence are not the primary focus of the police. (Unasked-for explanations are called “excuses” and “too much information.”) Also, the police are representations of the law, and the law will not be changed or altered during their actions on the street. (This is not the time, this is not the place.) The law embodied as the police lawfully can not be argued with, challenged, or quarreled against. (Tell it to the judge, to the legislatures, and to your elected officials.) In their confusion and humanity (that may express an animal, human or divine nature all at the same time), even after striking a victim multiple times with hands, fists or weapons, the police will operate with the idea that their victim does not feel pain until all movement and resistance are crushed. Unknowingly, they demand no complaint, moaning, groaning, cursing and swearing, or other sounds of distress; and their immediate goals for their victim become deny all escape or flight, paralysis, unconsciousness, or death.

With the goal that no one becomes injured through a police action, policies can be established that will allow both a suspect and an officer at the scene to avoid becoming a victim or an assailant by immediately notifying someone of their choice regarding their need for an intervention agent, be it family, friend, co-worker, police supervisor (e.g., desk sergeant, chief, sheriff), or an elected official (city counsel member, county executive, mayor). After exchanging information, a confrontation may be ended with a verbal pledge by the suspect to appear at the police station the next day, in night court, or some other venue. Terms of the pledge may include agreeing to be accountable as a full resident, and having to acknowledge that unwillingness to cooperate with the police implies a rejection of all privileges as a good neighbor granted by the community at large (e.g., driving, parking, trash collection). An attorney could be appointed as a one-time, emergency legal assistant to resolve the developing arrest confrontation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Hezekiah Walker:

(1.) Proverbs 11: 14, King James Version (KJV): 14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

(2.) Proverbs 12: 15, KJV: 15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

(3.) Proverbs 20: 18, KJV: 18 Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

(4.) James 1: 5-8, KJV: 5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. 7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. 8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnaHTOUigJM.) 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

(05/10/2020) Jesus and the Moneylenders

Matthew 21: 12, King James Version (KJV): 12 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,

 

Today, reply is on the account of Jesus using physical violence against the moneylenders within the courtyard at the Temple in Jerusalem. Like the Tabernacle of Moses, the Temple was to be a visible place of the unseen GOD’s continual presence with Israel. The sanctuary and other devoted places that are aspects of the church created by Jesus Christ are now also acknowledged as houses of GOD, and places of his appearing in Spirit. The holy writings show that, without correction from divinity, many will not realize that they are endowed with blessing and material prosperity from the Creator. GOD does supply evangelists, priests, prophets, rulers, and other of his servants with all they need (food, shelter, water, etc.) for accomplishing the sacred tasks they are assigned and trained to complete. Yet, the word of GOD, the divine process and substance we receive are not to be used as merchandise or personal property that we may dispose of as we please. Believers are equipped with divine gifts so they may resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Most Christian parents prefer to provide experiences of affection, gentleness, and tenderness to their children, and many are reluctant to accept that there also must be displays of commitment, firmness, and sternness against wrongdoing. Scolding and spanking will not make a child (or an adult person) permanently change to behave as a reliable and trustworthy daughter or son of GOD who is a sanctified believer; even so, as a member of the household of GOD, receiving in ones own flesh the consequences of their own errors and unwillingness to change may provide correction and otherwise unavailable warning regarding the consequences of judgment to come. It is written: Revelation 3: 15-19, King James Version (KJV): 15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 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. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

 

Jesus hurt those money lenders really badly when He brutally whipped them. Why is Jesus THAT hurtful?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And the Jews’ passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables; And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise. And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up. Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body. When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said. (John 2: 13-22, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Lost For 40 Years? (09/17/2018); Divine Anger at Harvest? (05/26/2019); The Presence of GOD (04/02/2019); Jesus Rebuked The Moneychangers? (05/16/2018); Punishment To Show Love? (11/29/2015); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013); Believers and the Cross (06/24/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, a parent may scold or spank a child, yet, does not disown their own offspring. Similarly, the process of GOD for sinners who repent is one of change, correction, and challenge. Jesus addressed all the money-changers as partners in a consecrated covenant with divinity, who had agreed when called upon to accept correction from GOD, and to acknowledge the wrath of GOD against their nation, their own sins, and the sins of their fathers. Just as children who lack adult intellect and logic cannot justify and reason out all their behavior and conduct to their own parents, and often must be trained using graphic, memorable, and physical experience that reveal the displeasure of their caretakers, those in covenant with GOD, as babes, also may require challenges and rebuke for betrayal, disobedience, disrespect, and irreverence. The spiritual instruction that comes to us in the account of Jesus driving the money-changers away from the Temple in Jerusalem proclaims that correct covenant relationship with divinity is one that includes benefits, inheritance and privileges to mankind, yet also requires integrity, sacred service, and continual acknowledgment of the holiness of GOD by all who are in the covenant relationship. In effect, the money-changers created a marketplace on holy ground where there was the buying and selling of livestock for sacrifices to travelers who would come to worship, and the exchange of local currency for letters of credit and cash from other areas (e.g., coins, salt, silver, gold). The Temple community could influence and defile the entire nation, and was made up of more than the High Priest, the Sanhedrin Court of 70, the Levites, or the scribes and lawyers who argued cases using the sacred law. Beggars, lepers seeking to be certified by the priests, those in lives of devotion to GOD (e.g., Simon and Anna, the prophets who first acknowledged Jesus as the fulfillment of divine promise), those seeking to make special offerings and petitions, pilgrims, and those seeking power through self-promotion frequented the Temple. To the extent the Temple continued worldly customs and traditions that the people thought were divinely approved, the Temple was a source of great error. Sacred law required that the heads of households and the primary heir from every family must assemble during specific annual feasts and festivals. This was a divinely given method to transform Israel from being a collection of tribes into a united people. Secular concerns such as politics, regional government, celebrations of sacred events (we say, miracles), and social welfare were not to be their agenda. Rather, focus was to be on fellowship with divinity. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Jeremiah 5: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 Run ye to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and see now, and know, and seek in the broad places thereof, if ye can find a man, if there be any that executeth judgment, that seeketh the truth; and I will pardon it. 2 And though they say, The LORD liveth; surely they swear falsely. 3 O LORD, are not thine eyes upon the truth? thou hast stricken them, but they have not grieved; thou hast consumed them, but they have refused to receive correction: they have made their faces harder than a rock; they have refused to return. 4 Therefore I said, Surely these are poor; they are foolish: for they know not the way of the LORD, nor the judgment of their God. 5 I will get me unto the great men, and will speak unto them; for they have known the way of the LORD, and the judgment of their God: but these have altogether broken the yoke, and burst the bonds.

(2.) Jeremiah 10: 23-25, KJV: 23 O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. 24 O LORD, correct me, but with judgment; not in thine anger, lest thou bring me to nothing. 25 Pour out thy fury upon the heathen that know thee not, and upon the families that call not on thy name: for they have eaten up Jacob, and devoured him, and consumed him, and have made his habitation desolate.

(3.) Hebrews 12: 3-8, KJV: 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. 4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. 5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. 7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? 8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

(4.) 1^st Peter 4: 12-18, KJV: 12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters. 16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. 17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5frx0hqWVqw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 3:20 AM, May 10, 2020 @ http://www.thewhirlingwind.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/jesus_whipping_the_money_changers.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/08/2020) The Place Of Meeting

We have this treasure in earthen vessels.

 

Today, I share some thoughts on the nearness of GOD during this Holy Week, 2020 while the doors to many of our consecrated houses of worship remain closed to mitigate the threats of Covid-19. GOD is a spirit who can exist within the consciousness and self-will of created beings and living creatures. Therefore, the issues of death and survival are no longer primary for those who are the church. The body, mind, and spirit of Jesus become the meeting place. There has been a widespread cancellation of the usual customs, practices and traditions among Christians to observe a season of remembrance acknowledging the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Even so, the indwelling of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD that glorify and sanctify Jesus Christ are not to be denied, dismissed, or ignored. It is no error or transgression that men regularly gather in areas specially prepared to share blessing, nourish each other’s godly growth, or together amplify praise and thanksgiving as a single body. For some divine fullness (we also say Deity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is nearest as we display humility before GOD, and offer our own heartfelt praise. For others, divinity is closest to us when we are in our private prayer chamber; and for many members of the body, God is most near when we are in the throng where we can minister comfort to those who are hurt, courage to those who are afraid, love to those rejected, and food to the hungry. As vessels of divine spirit, the offspring and heirs of GOD, our physical location is not to be uppermost among our concerns. Believers in Jesus Christ as their redeemer and savior are to acknowledge and proclaim an uninterrupted awareness that divinity is near and active for the benefit of all. It is written: Romans 8: 35-39, King James Version (KJV): 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Consider the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of the King’s College Choir, the Agnus Dei from Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings:

 

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

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020); Endure Trials Through Faith (03/31/2020); On Behalf Of Others (03/26/2020); The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020); Leadership By The Church (03/18/2020); Justified By Church Attendance? (06/21/2019); The Name “Resurrection Sunday” (04/23/2019); Resurrected With The Lord (04/16/2017)

 

(1.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 6-11, King James Version (KJV): 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

(2.) Psalms 46: 1-7, KJV: 1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. 4 There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High. 5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early. 6 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted. 7 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.

(3.) Psalms 89: 14-18, KJV: 14 Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face. 15 Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance. 16 In thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted. 17 For thou art the glory of their strength: and in thy favour our horn shall be exalted. 18 For the LORD is our defence; and the Holy One of Israel is our king.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWgjwTc3PUw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 9:38 PM, April 07, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/5c/c6/c8/5cc6c841c2ad52b87111dc71412397c1–prophetic-art-fine-art-print.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/05/2020) A Habitation of Spirit

 

Today—Palm Sunday 2020 when the usual distribution of palm branches will not occur as part of our regular memorials to Jesus Christ—the reply is on the church founded by Jesus Christ continuing to be essential for spiritual cleansing, healing, and nourishment at a time when the world system is demanding practices that include social distancing to endure a global health crisis. Because the blessings for those within the body of Christ (the church) are spirit in their process and substance, they are not for everyone who is in the world. It is important for committed believers to attend public gatherings in locations that have been consecrated and set apart by praise, prayer, sacrifice, and suffering. Divinity is not restricted by the frameworks of time and space, and may be invited and welcomed to appear in the midst of sacred gatherings. GOD, who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible must be received through spiritual operations (e.g., confession of sin; healing; hearing the word of GOD; rebirth following the death and burial of ones inborn spirit; the embodiment and expression of divinity within the clergy and other believers). Mature Christians maintain membership within focused and stable congregations that provide the body with multiple sacred gifts and tools that otherwise are unavailable within their own households, within their local communities, and within the world as a man-made system for survival. It is written: 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. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appeared) posted the following:

 

Since most Christians are ok with churches being non-essential, are they admitting that there is nothing supernatural about their faith?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. (John 17: 14-17, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Endure Trials Through Faith (03/31/2020); On Behalf Of Others (03/26/2020); The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020); Leadership By The Church (03/18/2020); “Because You Are Believers” (03/17/2020); Justified By Church Attendance? (06/21/2019); Commitment To Jesus Christ (03/07/2019)

 

“Anonymous”, among those who understand that the church provided by Jesus Christ is more than another social setting, and exists as more than another man-made institution or organization, the church itself continues to be essential, yet, its form and operations are in transition. Church attendance may be understood as a work of the flesh. The process of the church must be spiritual, rather than interpersonal. Divinity appeared on the earth using human flesh and life process to accomplish expressions of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. In addition to addressing the elimination of sin, and establishing mankind in redemption, Christ ministered atonement, forgiveness, reconciliation, rebirth, and fresh endowments of spirit substance from the makeup of divinity to renew mankind’s relationship as offspring and heirs of GOD. The savior’s focus was not the creation of community centers to provide academic instruction, amusements, family counseling, secular knowledge, political activism, or works of community service and social welfare. The living are to acknowledge that GOD is to exist within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of all created beings and living creatures. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness are imparted to those who become “born again” that include balance, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. There is great diversity among believers; and the divine process to “grow up again” requires accepting accountability, commitment, communication, discovery, exchange, interdependence, interaction, practice of sacraments, study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and suffering. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 17-18, King James Version (KJV): 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

(2.) Matthew 18: 19-20, KJV: 19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

(3.) Ephesians 2: 18-22, KJV: 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

(4.) Luke 17: 20-21, KJV: 20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: 21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (5.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6kp9893Pjg.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 2:55 AM, April 05, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b9/1b/7b/b91b7bcaf65a2b700ad78486fcd671f7.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/26/2020) On Behalf Of Others

 

Today, reply is on whether during the present covid-19 health crisis Christians should pray for the world or only for themselves. There are no layoffs or shut-down of ministry among believers; the sacred work of praise, fulfilling the promises of GOD, and manifesting prophecy (comfort, edification, exhortation) will continue. Ordinarily, to avoid meddling and spiritual confusion, many believers pray only for family, friends, coworkers, and persons they know through direct relationships. However, for mature Christian believers, earnest and fervent prayer are to be offered continually. This is so even where prayer is understood as intimate and personal communication with divinity that allows one to confess and share their darkest and deepest feelings as well as their most private thoughts. In the same way the operations of sin are impartial, irrational, and attack all that exists indiscriminately, epidemic disease and sickness that obey mechanical process and natural law also dismiss many sacred distinctions, and violate consecrated boundaries. Even in times like these when their gathering in public may be cut off, Christian believers are to behave as those in ongoing judgment; and all are commanded to be faithful, sober, steadfast, unwavering, and vigilant. Their duty to serve and share with others is not lessened. It is written: Ezekiel 34: 15-26, King James Version (KJV): 15 I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD. 16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. 17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats. 18 Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have eaten up the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pastures? and to have drunk of the deep waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet? 19 And as for my flock, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet; and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet. 20 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD unto them; Behold, I, even I, will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle. 21 Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad; 22 Therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and cattle. 23 And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd. 24 And I the LORD will be their God, and my servant David a prince among them; I the LORD have spoken it. 25 And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the land: and they shall dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods. 26 And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing. A fighter in the public forum on Religion & Spirituality at “Yahoo! Answers” who used the ID “REAL” (Level 2 with 815 points) posted the following:

 

Do anybody anywhere in the world pray ti his/her God to save the world from this pandemic or pray for themselves only?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none; And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not; And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away. (1^st Corinthians 7: 29-31, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Challenge of Covid-19 (03/22/2020); Leadership By The Church (03/18/2020); Believers Minister Through Prayer (09/23/2019); Fasting, Prayer and Sanctification (03/29/2019); Christian “Thoughts and Prayers” (03/01/2018); What to Do About Liars? (11/14/2014); Refraining Our Tongues? (11/15/2014)

 

“REAL”, there are unchanging aspects of eternal purpose that are to be fulfilled and performed by Creation that will not to be interrupted or suspended in response to conditions and events on the earth. Where divinity establishes evil (i.e., calamity; catastrophe; disaster; upheaval) it is for the further outworking of divine prerogative, sacred law, prophecy, and revelation. While a separation to identify and sanctify authentic authority must be continued, the divine example for men on the earth declares there also must be a manifesting of humility and unselfish service to others that includes intercessory praise and prayer specially on behalf of those who may be recognized as sinners in repentance. The primary focus for the church is to be salvation for those who are committed as members within the body. Thus, consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Hezekiah Walker:

(1.) Jeremiah 29: 4-7, King James Version (KJV): 4 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, unto all that are carried away captives, whom I have caused to be carried away from Jerusalem unto Babylon; 5 Build ye houses, and dwell in them; and plant gardens, and eat the fruit of them; 6 Take ye wives, and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons, and give your daughters to husbands, that they may bear sons and daughters; that ye may be increased there, and not diminished. 7 And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.

(2.) Isaiah 45: 6-8, KJV: 6 That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the LORD, and there is none else. 7 I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things. 8 Drop down, ye heavens, from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness: let the earth open, and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up together; I the LORD have created it.

(3.) Romans 8: 26-27, KJV: 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

(4.) John 17: 9-17, KJV: 9 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. 10 And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. 11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. 12 While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. 13 And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

(5.) 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, (6.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMcJL_UDAvw. Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloadable 1:06 PM, March 26, 2020 @ https://thelifeididntchoose.files.wordpress.com/2017/05/pray-for-one-another.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(03/18/2020) Leadership By The Church

 

Today, reply is on the response by Christian congregations to recommendations from health care providers and government officials that social distancing and the suspension of public gatherings be practiced during the current global health crisis focused on the coronavirus. There can be no surrender to depression, despair, or other emotional and psychological extremes. All are encouraged to go forward relying on the same determination and values that ensure our survival as families, households, neighborhoods, and nations. The need is for accountability, commitment, cooperation, endurance, maturity, respect, and vigilance, rather than complaining, divisiveness, fault-finding, laying blame, negativity, quarreling, and seeking to gain advantage over others. It is written: Romans 13: 9-14, King James Version (KJV): 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. 11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. 12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. 13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appeared) posted the following:

 

Why are churches closing down at this time of despair in the world?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. (John 17: 15-17, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why Do They Sing? (11/14/2019); Justified By Church Attendance? (06/21/2019); A Possible “Home Remedy?” (11/08/2018); Duties of a Christian? (03/13/2018); Not All Are Welcome (11/28/2017); Will GOD Bless My Team? (12/31/2012); Put Every Man His Sword By His Side (01/01/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, this is a time of challenge, yet, not a time of despair. The leadership that now must be shown by Christian believers in the church is to be seen in its cooperation with the policies and recommendations from health professionals and government officials who are acting on behalf of the commonwealth and well-being of vast communities having many diverse groups. The coronavirus, and the contagious disease it is promoting within our communities, are threats to the flesh of mankind and our continuing social order, rather than a threat against the spirit substance that divinity has deposited within mankind on the earth. The virus is only one more challenge to the duration (longevity) and quality of life that can be dealt with as major public health problems that operate in accordance with mechanical process and natural laws, and are not subject directly to the will of GOD. In the same way mortality is now a human condition (angels are neither mortal nor immortal, and only GOD is immortal), the consciousness that all (parents, children, employers, co-workers, etc.) may die at some point requires that humanity embrace specific values and standards to meet the challenges that come by living on the earth. Included are adopting attitudes and behaviors that express accountability, balance, commitment, integrity as human beings, maturity, and respect. Also, there should be willingness to change through discovery, gradual growth, learning, practice, unselfish service, and suffering. Correctly understood, many aspects of existence and life that the living are to embrace should be acknowledged as necessary duty and responsibility that must be discharged to become complete and full persons. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot

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

(2.) Romans 8: 22-23, KJV: 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

(3.) 2^nd Corinthians 4: 5-12, KJV: 5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.

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

(5.) Romans 13: 1-8, KJV: 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (6.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5PLdnz5UdU.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 3:30 PM, March 18, 2020 @ https://biblepic.com/53/15847.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(02/09/2020) Getting Help From Church?

 

Today, the reply is on why the process for healing and help within the church founded by Jesus Christ often appears distant, impersonal, and unfeeling. Those who turn to GOD hoping to escape confusion, hardship, and pain, will be shaken to find that life as the new creation of Jesus Christ also is filled with challenge, encounters with error, and various forms of opposition. Sinners who approach the church having lives filled with anger, bitterness, fear, and uncertainty demand a personal response from members of the body; however, correctly understood, attention and focus for everyone must be on the example of Jesus Christ, and the unseen things of GOD that are being revealed. Rather than focus on his own comfort and prosperity, Jesus centered on the fulfillment of promise and prophecy; obedience to the spirit within sacred law and divine principle; eternal purpose; and the sovereign will of the Father. The needs for cleansing, nourishment, and new life are met more by our acceptance of duty, humility, and the demands we make of ourselves, than the demands we make of others. It is written: Philippians 2: 5-13, 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. 12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality (no profile data appears) posted the following:

 

I thought Jesus healed the brokenhearted and mad men. You go to todays church for help and they just look at you like you’re crazy.?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. (Psalms 34: 17-19, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Good Works Have Priority? (11/28/2019); Why Do They Sing? (11/14/2019); Taboo To Be “spiritual”? (10/07/2019); Divine Fruit From Suffering? (12/19/2018); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); GOD’s Way Not Equal? (07/17/2016); Can Someone Be Happy? (12/10/2013); Asked to Help? (12/11/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, every member of a church body usually is not instructed and prepared to address the broad range of life experience as mentors, parents, spouses, and professional therapists. More than this, genuine sacred healing requires divine process and spirit substance that may not be according to the frameworks of time and space. Here are some points to consider when reflecting on our experiences entering the church as a place of healing and safety apart from the world. Many become very disappointed, and even discouraged, because they are looking for solutions that are not truly aspects of the atonement, forgiveness, and reconciliation established by Christ:

(1.) The primary focus of the church has to be on redemption and salvation that are sacred works performed using fresh endowments of the Holy Spirit that are imparted from Jesus Christ to exist within the hearts and minds of sinners who seek new life through the Savior’s death, burial, and resurrection.

(2.) Sinners often approach divinity having a mix of emotional, financial, physical, psychological, and spiritual problems that can not be addressed by other persons like themselves. A new relationship with the Creator must be established wherein they receive substance from the makeup of GOD (for example, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, wrath against sin). Immortal, incorruptible, invisible GOD will use material, social, and visible tools that are on the earth to respond to such persons and their needs.

(3.) Developing believers are granted fellowship as members within assemblies and communities of faith; however, much of their development as new believers must be through self-directed operations to build up their own inner content as seen with commitment, discovery, gradual growth, learning, practice of sacraments (e.g., praise; prayer; unselfish service), private study of the holy writings, suffering, and heartfelt worship.

(4.) Those who become “born again” also must “grow up again;” and all are to become mature and ripe for harvesting from the earth by Jesus Christ at his appearing (we say, the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). The saved are to continue on the earth as vessels of divine substance, the offspring of GOD, and the new creation. As believers, they are to display the image of GOD, and are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, hear a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson: 5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5frx0hqWVqw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 11:26 AM, February 09, 2020 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/q7y6IDJVsMM/maxresdefault.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/28/2019) Good Works Have Priority?

 

Today, the reply is on the priorities for church congregations, and the use of church funds for ministry to the poor instead of for special observances and seasonal programs. Ministry intended to rejoice the church body as a community separated to Christ is not to be accounted as self-indulgent, superfluous, or unrighteous. While Christian church groups perform good works ministering to the community-at-large and the World, the members of a congregation themselves must maintain their peculiar identity as those joined by their spirit content from GOD. Those having discernment will insist that programs presented to the congregation be prophetic in their nature, and correctly convey comfort, edification, and exhortation. Choices and decisions will be required that give the assembly an appearance of indifference, an exaggerated focus on religion, or even undue self-promotion. Even so, many of the works that must be done to establish an anointed congregation of Christian believers are unseen by the community-at-large, and are provided only through the active relationships found among mature members of the church. The idea that one gives GOD a Rolodex—not a cheap copy or knock-off’—comes into view with the principle, we are to give GOD only our best. Therefore, silver and gold will appear even among congregations of poor, third-world, and working class believers, because they want to serve unselfishly, and correctly acknowledge the divine preeminence. It is written: Malachi 3: 13-18, King James Version (KJV): 13 Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? 14 Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD of hosts? 15 And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. 16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. 17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. 18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum for Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

How could a church justify blowing a grand on soloists for Christmas Eve?

Our church has decided to spend a thousand dollars on musicians for Christmas Eve preludes before the service. This is 30 minutes of music before each of 3 Christmas Eve services. This thousand dollars could easily house and feed a poor family, and it could provide water to someone in the Sahara so they don’t dehydrate, or help close the ozone hole.

How hard is it for someone to just belt out Ooooooh Hoooooleeeee Naaaaaaiiiicht thuuuuuuu staaaaaaaaaars are braaaaaiiiiiiichtly schaaiiiiiiiiniiiing ……….

Just having someone in the church perform the preludes would definitely save money to give to the poor, and do they really need a piper piping and a drummer drumming. Is this wasting good money and equivalent to lighting the money on fire to see all the pretty sparks and colored flames. It just ends up going up into the night sky either way.

Why pay a grand for something that is so easy to get done for free. People are starving and freezing without heat and the church wastes money on special music is this fair?

…Show more

Updated 2 hours ago:

I bet most people would gladly sit through a terrible screeching rendition of these songs if it meant that money went to someone so they could have heat this winter. Or a family could have a turkey on the table.

Updated 1 hour ago:

Since when was singing o holy night as complicated as brain surgery or something to justify such a high cost. Just belt it out and save the money if it was me.

Updated 1 hour ago:

That money would be better spent on education of church members. It could pay for the textbooks for a law student for a semester. Think of how much that compounds returns, education is the gift that keeps on giving, or it could pay for an elderly dementia patient’s diaper changer for a month. Or help someone afford their nursing home bills.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2: 8-10,KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Why Do They Sing? (11/14/2019); Patriotic Songs To Worship? (11/10/2019); Christian Celebration And Rejoicing (11/03/2019); The Purpose Of Worship (10//10/2019); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); Salvation By Good Works? (03/08/2018); Can A Church Not Be “Religious”? (07/27/2016); Why Are Works Required? (07/18/2016)

 

“Anonymous”, Christian believers do not become justified before GOD by performing good deeds and community service works; the process and substance of our deeds must be Spirit. Properly understood, worship at Christmas, or Easter and other feasts are sacred events, to be shared within the sanctuary that is set apart by prayer, and among the saints of GOD. During celebrations and seasons of observance, the purpose for those who gather in fellowship continues to be that they resemble, reflect, and reveal Jesus Christ. Even so, Christian believers usually come short of the mark set by the Savior as head of the church when they seek to rank and rate secular works (e.g., distributing clothes; presenting programs for public health awareness; hosting political and social activists; presenting concerts and music programs) against spiritual practices (e.g., confession; praise; prayer; prophesy using music and dance). The offering to divine fullness (divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) is no longer the blood of bulls, goats and sheep; rather, it is the blood of Jesus. Standards that applied when making offerings and sacrifices continue today as principles for behavior and conduct when acknowledging and showing reverence to divinity. Because buying and selling (bake sales, yard sales, etc.), charitable giving, and philanthropy are very visible, and can generate much discussion and excitement, many congregations mistakenly seek to build up their assembly’s name and reputation through fund-raising and personal service, where lasting benefit to the church as a body may come only by the presence of Jesus Christ and the operations of the Holy Spirit. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

(1.) Leviticus 22: 20-22, King James Version (KJV): 20 But whatsoever hath a blemish, that shall ye not offer: for it shall not be acceptable for you. 21 And whosoever offereth a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD to accomplish his vow, or a freewill offering in beeves or sheep, it shall be perfect to be accepted; there shall be no blemish therein. 22 Blind, or broken, or maimed, or having a wen, or scurvy, or scabbed, ye shall not offer these unto the LORD, nor make an offering by fire of them upon the altar unto the LORD.

(2.) Luke 11: 41-42, KJV: 41 But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. 42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

(3.) Mark 14: 3-9, KJV: 3 And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head. 4 And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made? 5 For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her. 6 And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me. 7 For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always. 8 She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying. 9 Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6tGWMV22AA.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 1:30 PM, November 27, 2019 @ http://pictures.agodman.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/AC-Rom.-15-6-That-with-one-accord-you-may-with-one-mouth-glorify-the-God-and-Father-of-our-Lord-Jesus-Christ.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC