(03/27/2019) GOD’s Will Be Done?

 

Today, reply speaks to the oneness and sameness of purpose and sacred will residing within the divine Father and the Son. Because Jesus Christ appeared on the earth as both the Son of GOD and the Son of Man, many experience spiritual confusion. The Savior must address multiple aspects of human and sacred relationships with their conflicting demands for autonomy, dependence, durability, infirmity, power, strength, and vulnerability. The divinity of Christ is to become known and revealed through inseparable aspects of spirit content, eternal purpose, and shared sacred operations. Jesus must yet display authentic divinity as one having divine judicial authority to preside over sacred tribunals, provide atonement as a High Priest, and to execute justice by the second death. Even so, the authentic humanity displayed throughout his life, death, resurrection, and ascension will continue by his coronation and his marriage supper as the consecrated Bridegroom. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

 

What is the will of the father?

It says in the Bible that only those who do the will of the father shall make it into Heaven.

I am thinking that the will of the father is the will of the son. To follow God is to follow his son Jesus. Am I correct?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. (John 5: 24-27, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Mystery of GODhead (10/21/2018); These Three Are One (10/03/2018); Completeness, Integrity And Wholeness? (06/21/2018); Divinity In Continuing Incarnation (02/07/2018); The Divinity of “Word” (01/26/2018); The Shared Divine Glory? (01/15/2018); Thoughts On Divine Personhood (12/07/2017); The Device of Incarnation (10/18/2017)

 

“Anonymous”, because the Word was made flesh, and appeared in the earth using the form of a man (Jesus Christ), the integrity of being, the oneness without sameness that is shared among divinity (we also say, the divine fullness; the Godhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and the discrete personhood of the Holy should be less difficult to apprehend than ever before. However, Jesus had to display authentic humanity at every stage of carnal, material and social development; as a result, many of us often fail to properly acknowledge his divine essence as the image of GOD. While we know there are communication, exchange and interaction among the Divine Persons (i.e., multiple relationships) we can not clearly and simply describe the many shifts in accountability, direction, presence, sacred process, and works that also exist. The accord and eternal purpose of Father, Son and Holy Spirit that were manifest in Creation are continued through the shared eternal purpose displayed as judgment, reconciliation, redemption, and salvation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. John 1: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

2. John 1: 10-14, KJV: 10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. 11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

3. Colossians 1: 12-20, KJV: 12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

4. John 6: 38-40, KJV: 38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. 39 And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. 1^st John 2: 22-24, KJV: 22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. 23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: [but] he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also. 24 Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.) 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

(06/11/2018) Self-Will And Christian Integrity

 

Today, reply is on the operation of divine will, rather than “free will” in the life of Christian believers.  The primary goal for the Christian believer is to become Christ-like in every aspect of their living.  Christian believers, therefore, seek to implement and perform the revealed will of GOD, and are not trying to escape the obligations of accountability, duty, and reverence toward GOD.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

Is free will real or just an illusion?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)  Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;  And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.  (2nd Corinthians 10:  4-6, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Why Jonah Willfully Disobeyed (06/10/2018); Life And Divine Purpose (05/04/2018); Divine Knowing, Finite Will? (09/28/2016); The Philosophy of Free Will? (04/08/2014); The Name(?) of GOD (04/09/2014); No Free Will (10/19/2010); Speaking of GOD (10/20/2010)

 

“Anonymous”, among Christian believers the language that speaks of “free will” is less accurate and useful, for that phrase speaks to decision-making, or determining ones own behavior and course on the basis of aspects of mind, personhood, and the flesh.  Included are carnal reason, emotion (e.g., anger, fear, sorrow), desire, imagination, intelligence, lust, and the many operations of sin that may dominate awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures.  For angels, men, sacred beasts of heaven, and others throughout the universe self-will appears as an aspect of separation from divinity that establishes integrity and legitimacy for the existence and personhood of each living entity.  Correctly understood, developing Christians are to display the inseparable aspects of divine fullness imparted through baptism and rebirth that are in accord with divine prerogative, sacred law, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD.  Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Titus 1:  7-9, King James Version (KJV):  7 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;  8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;  9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

(2.)  2nd Peter 2:  9-11, KJV:  9 The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:  10 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.  11 Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord.

(3.)  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, (4.)  1st John 4:  1-6, KJV:  1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God:  because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God:  Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:  3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God:  and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.  4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them:  because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.  5 They are of the world:  therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.  6 We are of God:  he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(04/27/2018) GOD’s Will Be Done

 

Today, reply is on Jesus Christ as a one-of-a-kind provision for mankind and the total elimination of sin that is the second death.  For divinity to complete and fulfill all of the determinations expressing eternal purpose and sovereign will the obstacles presented through the operations of sin all must be removed in such a way they may never appear again.  Included are covetousness, defiance, disbelief, fear, idolatry, ignorance, irreverence, rebelliousness, presumption, pride, skepticism, stubbornness, and ungratefulness.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Joseph Stalin” (Level 1 with 102 points, a member since April 23, 2018) posted the following:

 

Can Christians Explain why Jesus is like this?

”if you don’t believe in me you will go to hell”

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.  But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone:  which is the second death.  (Revelation 21:  7-8, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Law Is Demanding (04/10/2018); Incurring “The Second Death” (04/02/2018); Opposing The Divine Will (03/30/2018); Satan’s Challenge to Divinity (03/27/2018); An Act of GOD? (12/20/2017); Determining What Is Sin (06/15/2017); Divine Knowing, Finite Will? (09/28/2016); Finite Will, Self-will and Sin? (06/01/2015)

 

“Joseph Stalin”, Christ is speaking to mankind in terms of divine imperatives, consecrated mercy, and the sovereign will of GOD not merely human ego, intellect, pride, and violence.  In the same way men and women on the earth need guidance, instruction and clear warnings to maintain hygiene and health for their physical body (e.g., counsel on diet, foods, and nutrition), humans also need preparation and structure for continuing intimate relationships, emotional and psychological stability, confidence, and the health of their mind.  Our survival as independent and living persons also requires a correct acknowledgement of conditions, operations, and purposes established by our unseen, yet knowable, Creator that determine the possibilities for our existence, fulfillment, quality, and value.

There are pre-existing conditions and limitations for everyone of us born in the flesh that either continue our duration, or result in our death.  Included are patterns and regularities described as appetite; elimination of poisons and waste that may collect within the body; sensation (e.g., hearing, tasting, touching); emotion/mind; the need to replenish and replace our resources that become depleted and exhausted; and the operations of sin.  Sin is no ordinary object that we might hold in our hand, or put into our pocket; yet, sin opposes the existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the entire universe.  Sin has not been created by divinity, and is vain (i.e., lacks spirit substance from the makeup of GOD).  Even so, the operations of sin may dominate consciousness and self-will (we also say, willpower) in created beings and living creatures. 

Human potential, and what may be displayed as the character and nature of mankind includes (1) expression of personhood driven by an animal nature, a human nature, a divine nature, or a mix and simultaneous appearance of all three; (2) personhood that is immature and underdeveloped; and (3) personhood restricted to secular knowledge and lacking sacred knowledge.  Without the one-of-a-kind provisions from GOD that include divinity appearing in the form of a man (we say, Incarnation; Jesus Christ; the Son of GOD), the living fail to realize that sin is contrary to the highest expression of humanity, promotes non-existence, and is self-destructive.  Through Jesus Christ, divinity has demonstrated sovereign authority to restore life (we say, raise the dead; resurrection); has revealed mercy in judgment as an eternal purpose; and has shown that the elimination of sin requires annihilation, the second death.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Ezekiel 18:  4, King James Version (KJV):  4 Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine:  the soul that sinneth, it shall die.

(2.)  Luke 19:  10, KJV:  10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

(3.)  Ezekiel 18:  19-24, KJV:  19 Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live.  20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son:  the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.  21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.  22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him:  in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.  23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD:  and not that he should return from his ways, and live?  24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned:  in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/27/2018) Satan’s Challenge to Divinity

Juan de Flandes (ca. 1500-04), The Temptation of Christ

 

Today, points are shared on the sovereign will of GOD, the temptation of Christ by Satan, and the sacred process of GOD for ministry to mankind.  Satan’s attack on the finite strength and weakness of Jesus as one in the flesh was more than simply an attack against mankind.  It was an attack against all divine fullness that would be recorded in the book of life as his own undoing.  In the same way the tempter could not recognize Jesus as the Son of the Highest, the Lamb of GOD, and the Word, the Adversary was unable to determine whether Jesus was the one prophesied, promised, and sent who would bruise the head of the serpent.  Therefore, he sought to provoke the Anointed One into confessing and boasting of his exalted, sacred  identity while Christ appeared to be simply another man who also was unbalanced and vulnerable.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

When Satan tempted Jesus three times, why did Jesus choose to submit the first two times?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.  And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.  And he was withdrawn from them about a stone’s cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,  Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.  And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.  And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly:  and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.  And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,  And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.  And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.  (Luke 22:  39-47, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  In The Image of Man (05/04/2016); Divine Jealousy? (09/11/2015); Jesus Given A Divine Ministry? (08/18/2015); Gall Refused on the Cross? (03/20/2015); The Testing of Job? (10/06/2014); Knowing the Spirit is Inside? (10/07/2014); On Testing GOD (06/20/2013); GOD Grants License? (06/21/2013); The Passion at Gethsemane (03/28/2013); Separated and Sealed? (03/29/2013); A Man in Heaven? (09/23/2012); Aliens? (09/24/2012)

 

“Anonymous”, here are some points to prayerfully consider:

1.  To avoid spiritual confusion, the temptation of Christ should be acknowledged as a sacred event that focuses upon aspects of divine character, eternal purpose, and the spirit substance from the makeup of GOD that has been imparted to created beings and living creatures including angels and unclean spirits. 

2.  In the understanding of many mature Christian believers, Satan appeared having the purpose of challenging the authenticity of Jesus Christ as a man on the earth by boasting his own dominion over the inheritance bestowed on Adam as a son of GOD. 

3.  Christ was guided by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness following his baptism at the Jordan River.  There he would be isolated, without food, water, and the usual comforts of men.  Prepared only for fasting and prayer; he also would have to endure the extremes of cold nights and burning days.  The focus of Jesus was to discover the Father’s intent and sacred process for ministry to mankind.

4.  In the same way Christ did not appear having the glory and image he manifested while in heaven, it is likely that the tempter appeared in the form of a man, and did not display the recognizable adornment and regalia he had been privileged to present for ages while among the heavenly host. 

5.  The deceiver did not first announce himself as the Adversary of GOD, nor did he speak to proclaim his purpose.  Even so, his own words would expose him.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, 6.  By appealing to appetite (that Jesus should transform stones to bread), exaggerated religious pride (lifting Jesus above the Temple at Jerusalem, the highest, holiest place on earth), and lust for wealth and worldly power (showing Christ the fallen nations), the temptation appears designed to arouse greed, trigger concern for the flesh in place of the spirit, and draw Jesus into human submission and false worship.  However, the key element for success in the use of Incarnation by the fullness of divinity (we also say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit) was the willing acknowledgment of the divine will, rather than the finite will of the created ones.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/08/2018) A Prayer Against Backsliding?

 

Today, reply is on being “born again” and “growing up again” with corrections for backsliding, rather than having to offer “the sinners prayer” multiple times.  Even among Christian believers, there are many occasions when errors and sins of ignorance are committed.  Therefore, the process of salvation should not be thought of as a “one-time” event; salvation is active and ongoing (1st Corinthians 10:  12, King James Version (KJV):  12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.)  Recovery from errors as the offspring and heirs of divinity through Jesus Christ is more the result of humbling oneself and an abiding spiritual condition of sorrowing for sin than an outcome from multiple confessions and “talks with GOD.”  Sin has not been eliminated by the death of Christ on the cross, and sin will continue to challenge believers until its final destruction through the second death.  With this in view, believers are commanded to maintain vigilance against the operations of sin; and even mature Christians can not account themselves as perfected, sanctified, completely transformed, and no longer subject to sin through the power of their own will.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Will” (Level 1 with 95 points, a member since February 06, 2018) posted the following:

 

Why is it so hard to remember the sinners prayer?

See here I have been trying my hardest to get to know about GOD, But see I keep sinning left and right, see I do read my Bible every day if I remember but I still struggle with sin in my life, see I keep thinking that GOD hates me because I keep sinning see I’m almost in my sixty’s and I don’t want to spend eternity in the lake of 🔥 for forever how can I I remember sinners prayer and stop sinning

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.  If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:  But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.  If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.  (1st John 1:  5-10, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Genuine Spiritual Discernment? (03/27/2017); To Foster Godly Sorrow (03/11/2016); Skipping Church A Sin? (11/17/2015); Can Salvation Be Lost? (09/14/2015); Repentance, Sin and Willpower (09/08/2015); Genuine Repentance? (03/24/2014); When Is A Law The LAW? (03/25/2014); Resisting Sin (12/21/2013); When People Covet (12/22/2013)

 

“Will”, there must be actions that provide substance to our words.  There is no single set of words that are to be repeated and spoken like a magic spell that will erase sin from our lives.  Thus, “the sinners prayer” must be created and “made up” in the moment as the Spirit gives utterance.  Here are some ideas that have made a great difference for Christian believers:

Many have tried to eliminate and remove the operations of sin from their lives by relying on finite human tools such as emotion, intelligence, logic, carnal reason, philosophy, and science.  However, sin is more than simply an outcome or result from education, thinking, and feeling—thus, there also are doctoral degree holders and scientists who are sinners.  Sin may dominate consciousness and self-will within created beings and living creatures, yet, sin is not a spirit substance, and is no object or thing created by GOD.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and the full universe that appears through divine order.  Without divine law and the operations of ones inner life essence (we also say, breath, spirit, Word), sin is not discerned and recognized as contrary to the character and makeup of mankind.  Therefore, sin is approved and indulged by sinners as “natural”, “normal”, and unavoidable. 

Sinners must undergo permanent changes through operations of the Holy Spirit that include the death, burial, and resurrection of their inborn spirit.  Once “born again” having divine DNA, so to speak, the sinner will exist as a developing believer who must “grow up again” facing the same “growing pains,” life challenges, hardships, and suffering as others on the earth.  As a new creation through Jesus Christ, the believer must apply and display sacred knowledge in place of secular knowledge, along with inseparable aspects of divine fullness such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Among other things, the life of the developing believer will be transformed through discovery, gradual growth, praise, regular prayer, practice of sacraments, continual study of the holy writings, and unselfish service.  The believer must become mature (ripe) for harvest when the Lord returns to claim those who are his from the earth (we say, Advent, his appearing, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  Just as believers now are being examined in judgment before that day, and are totally dependent on the operations of GOD, believers cannot rely on self-will (their own willpower), and are dependent on the sovereign will of GOD that is not subject to sin.  Consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Matthew 10:  19-20, King James Version (KJV):  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.

(2.)  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.

(3.)  Luke 18:  9-14, KJV:  9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:  10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.  11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.  12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.  13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.  14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other:  for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

There is far more to be discovered, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 10:  4-10, KJV:  4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.  5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.  6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)  7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)  8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart:  that is, the word of faith, which we preach;  9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.  10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/29/2018) Choosing to be Reborn

 

Today, topics include decision-making, rebirth, and the operations of will within mankind.  Our abilities and behaviors that derive from properties of the flesh include appetite, the processing of sense data (hearing, seeing, touching, etc.), and the functions of heart  and mind (e.g., emotion, imagination, recall, thought).  The choice by sinners to return to GOD (we say, repentance) is a choice to allow divinity to make multiple, permanent changes in the full pattern of our makeup and personhood.  Through rebirth, sinners are to become vessels of divine spirit, and to continue as the offspring of GOD on the earth.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “john” (Level 2 with 307 points, a member since March 26, 2016) posted the following:

Beliefs and opinions are created outside of will , so How can you choose to believe something ?

My opinions are influenced by outside forces . So I don’t understand the saying you can choose what to believe .

 

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:  There Must Be Rebirth (01/21/2018); Flesh As Divine Vessels? (01/14/2018); Convinced/Convicted? (05/16/2017); His Birth Signals Rebirth (01/03/2017); No Repentance Without Rebirth? (12/14/2016); Choice, Duty, and Obligation? (11/17/2016); Judgment Focused On Content? (08/30/2016)

 

“john”, in the “analysis” many Christian believers are willing to make, the differences between the faculties of our mind and the operations by our spirit content from GOD must be accounted for.  Conviction, decisions, and opinions are products of finite tools for human survival such as awareness, intellect, logic, philosophy, carnal reason, science, secular knowledge, and self-will (we also say, willpower).  For the sinner who seeks a correct relationship to the Creator, a divinely provided process must be entered upon wherein ones inborn life essence put forth by GOD at Creation (we say, the breath; spirit; Word) undergoes permanent changes; and the sinner becomes a “developing believer” who will begin to operate on the basis of their own fresh endowment of sacred substance imparted from the makeup of divinity.

Those who are “born-again” do not choose “to believe” so much as they choose to make commitment to new experiences of discovery, gradual growth, fellowship with other believers, and regular practices that will nourish themselves as sons and daughters of GOD (e.g., praise, prayer, study of the Bible, unselfish service, regular worship).  Those born-again also must “grow up again” and encounter “growing pains” and life challenges on the earth that include bereavement, disappointments, hardship, and suffering.  As developing believers, all are supplied with inseparable spirit content from the makeup of GOD (e.g., faith, forbearance, forgiveness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin).  Even so, there are differences in their levels of ability, insight, maturity, etc.

The operations of sin may dominate consciousness and self-will in created beings and living creatures; yet, sin is contrary to human and divine nature.  Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law and promotes chaos, non-existence and the elimination of the divine order that maintains the universe.  Where believers will welcome and perform in agreement with the sovereign will of GOD they become more capable of recognizing, rejecting, and resisting sin through their lifestyle and daily routines.  With these points in mind, consider the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  John 4:  24, King James Version (KJV):  24 God is a Spirit:  and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

(2.)  1st Corinthians 2:  1-5, KJV:  1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.  2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.  3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.  4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:  5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

(3.)  1st Corinthians 2:  12-14, KJV:  12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.  13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.  14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God:  for they are foolishness unto him:  neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  5-9, KJV:  5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.  7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God:  for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.  8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.  9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX 
Washington, DC

(12/20/2017) An Act of GOD?

The Crucifixion by Tintoretto, 1565

 

Today, reply is on discernment and recognizing events on the earth as actions performed by divinity.  Existence and the life essence (breath, spirit, Word) imparted to the living permit their consciousness and response to actions by unseen divinity.  Thus, created beings and living creatures “know” the active presence who is GOD by his distinctive deeds and ongoing sacred works.  A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Alan” (Level 1 with 106 points, a member since November 09, 2017) posted the following:

 

If the chance of an event happening was one in a million, would that convince you it was an act of God?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Wherefore David blessed the LORD before all the congregation:  and David said, Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever.  Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty:  for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.  Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.  Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.  But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.  For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding.  (1st Chronicles 29:  10-15, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Coincidence or Answered Prayer? (11/15/2017); Divine Wrath Against Sin? (10/17/2017); Knowing the Invisible GOD (09/17/2017); Storms to Punish America? (09/08/2017); Growth Is Through Edification (06/20/2017); Putting GOD First? (06/02/2013); Need for A New Holy Spirit? (06/03/2013); Magick and Prayer? (10/29/2012); The Fear of GOD (10/30/2012)

 

“Alan”, many become spiritually confused because men on the earth as well as angels and devils are being used as instruments to accomplish divine intent.  For Christians, the basis for regarding an occurrence as the “act of GOD” is not how many lives and persons are involved, how often or regularly it appears, the mathematical and statistical probability for the event repeating, or how global and widespread the event may be.  Christian believers are commanded and encouraged to acknowledge that the death of Jesus on the cross is an example of “an act of GOD” as was the Creation of heaven and earth, the forgiveness of the sins and offenses against GOD they have committed as well as sinners becoming “born again” and being received as a new creation (we say, sons and daughters of GOD, and joint heirs with Christ).

Once sinners are reborn through water baptism (death, burial, and resurrection of their inborn spirit) they are to “grow up again” as offspring from divine DNA, so to speak.  Developing believers receive fresh endowments of inseparable sprit content from the makeup of divinity that includes faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  All are to meet the challenges of life and “growing pains” on the earth, and become ripe (mature) for harvest by the Lord at his return (some say, Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming). 

Developing believers are to be edified (built up) through discovery, gradual growth, fellowship with believers more mature than themselves (e.g., clergy, co-workers, their own parents), through sacred knowledge in place of secular knowledge, through observing sacred practices (sacraments) through study of the holy writings as well as by unselfish service through their lifestyle and daily routines (e.g., praise, prayer, worship).

Believers are to become skilled using discernment (i.e., use of ones own spirit content imparted from the makeup of GOD as a standard to recognize and respond to the spirit substance within events, other persons, prophetic demonstrations, purposes, etc.)  Acts of GOD are distinct, for they express the heart, mind and sovereign will of GOD, and do not exalt or express the will of mankind, or any other created being and living creature.  Acts of GOD, therefore, will all appear as in accord with divine law and sacred judgment; with eternal purpose; with the proclamations, promises, and prophesies from GOD; with the terms of covenant relationship; and with the revelation of GOD whereby divinity is made knowable, known, accessible and approachable.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  John 1:  11-14, King James Version (KJV):  11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.  12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:  13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.  14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

(2.)  Romans 8:  14-17, KJV:  14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.  15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.  16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:  17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

(3.)  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 to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Colossians 1:  12-22, KJV:  12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:  13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:  14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:  15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:  16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers:  all things were created by him, and for him:  17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.  18 And he is the head of the body, the church:  who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.  19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.  21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled  22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: )  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/15/2017) Determining What Is Sin

 

Today, thoughts are shared on the methods for defining “sin” used among Christian believers.  All sin must be known and understood as contrary to the existence, active presence, and sovereign will of GOD.  Many of us began knowing what sin is by answering a list of forbidden attitudes, behaviors, and things people say.  Even so, in the same way only learning to recite the ABCs does not make a child able to read and write complete words, becoming an independent and mature believer requires more than simple information that describes a few of the many negative conditions, offenses, patterns, and situations that call forth divine wrath against sin.  Wrath against sin is not an emotion or feeling that GOD experiences from time to time.  Anger and disgust directed against disobedience, evil, and wickedness are permanent and inseparable aspects of the full character, makeup, and substance of the Creator.   Created beings and living creatures who sin are not yet annihilated because divine wrath must also be in  balance with other sacred elements such as compassion, forgiveness, impartiality, joy, longsuffering, and mercy.  A writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “chaindropz” (Level 4 with 3,074 points, a member since September 10, 2007) posted the following:

 

How do Christians determine what act is a sin?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Owe no man any thing, but to love one another:  for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.  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.  Love worketh no ill to his neighbour:  therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.  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.  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.  (Romans 13:  8-12, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  On Law and Sin (06/07/2017); Atonement, Repentance and More (06/06/2017); Sin to Cover Sin? (02/24/2017); Knowing GOD and Sin? (02/03/2017); Divine Presence and Spirit (01/18/2017); Eternal Life From GOD (10/24/2016); The Cross and Creation (03/24/2016); Condemned by the Church? (08/19/2014); Principles of Correct Belief? (08/20/2014)

 

“chaindropz”, many mature Christian believers agree that divine instruction regarding sin is necessary for new life within the church.  Among small children, young people, and sinners who are just beginning to acquire the sacred knowledge, and develop godly concentration through regular sacred practices (we say, sacraments), sin often is known primarily on the basis of divine law, prohibitions (statements like “thou shalt not”), and ones intuited, diffuse, inner sense of right and wrong/good and bad.  Sin seems to be no more than an abstract, immaterial force, or influence.  Correctly understood, sin is no common object you may hold in your hand, or slip into your pocket; and sin can not be eliminated or destroyed by merely retracing/reversing a persons actions.  (The death of a sinner will stop them from committing more sins, however, the consequences and outcomes from their deeds will continue long after they are dead and gone.)

For mature Christian believers, the divine operations for responding to sin also include using special tools from GOD.  There must be discernment (using ones own spirit content to recognize and respond to spirit substance from divinity appearing within events, oneself, other persons, prophecies, holy writings, etc.), judgment (applying the precepts and principles of divine law as standards to assign meaning, quality, and value; to resolve conflicts; and to settle disputes) as well as incarnation (the embodiment of spirit substance using flesh and blood).

Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the divine order that serves as the platform of this universe.  More than simply promoting death, sin generates non-existence, and the return to conditions of chaos and formlessness that were in place before Creation.  Sin has direction, effect, and presence; and sin may dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures.  The will of GOD is not subject to sin; thus,  provision of fresh endowments of divine spirit through the ministry of Jesus Christ is an important “solution” in the full response of GOD to sin.  Sin can not be controlled or erased by simply listing all the specific acts and behaviors that are offensive to GOD.  Finite tools such as intellect, logic, carnal reason, philosophy, science and human willpower are not enough to eliminate sin.

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, through operations of the Holy Spirit during baptism there are the death, burial, and resurrection of ones inborn spirit.  All believers must become “born again,” so to speak, from divine seed, and have fresh deposits of Spirit from the makeup of GOD.  Inseparable aspects from the character, nature, and spirit content of GOD are imparted.  Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Every one who becomes “born again” also must “grow up again” while living on the earth, and is to become ripe for harvest (mature; fit to meet the Lord in the air at his Second Coming).  As vessels of divine substance these will be received as sons and daughters of GOD, divine offspring, and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(09/28/2016) Divine Knowing, Finite Will?

Today, focus is upon the confusion and familiar errors associated with “free will”, divine knowing, and “predestination”.   While there are “freedom”, “latitude when applying the law”, “liberty”, and self-will within the living that may be understood as provided from GOD, there is no such thing as “free will” that makes a person exempt from divine judgment, or releases the living from having to respond to conditions for existence, the fulfillment of sacred promises, and the accomplishment of prophecy in place from before the foundation of the world.  One of the many fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

 

Are free will and omniscience a contradiction?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;  As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:  But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;  Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.  And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:  Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;  But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:  Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,  Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.  (1st Peter 1:  13-21, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Cross and Critical Thinking? (04/13/2016); Knowing? (05/24/2015); The Philosophy of Free Will? (04/08/2014); The Name(?) of GOD (04/09/2014); Doing GOD’s Plan? (02/20/2014); “Prayer Death”? (02/21/2014); No Free Will? (10/19/2010); Speaking of GOD (10/20/2010)

 

“Anonymous”, lacking correct sacred knowledge, many of us have confusions about divine authority and “free will” (i.e., that there is no accountability or duty to answer and serve GOD; there should be no limits upon self-will in created beings and living creatures).  The issue is not one of contradiction; it is many and includes betrayal, defiance, disobedience, and rebellion.  Sinners must go beyond the idea that divinity “reads your mind,” “programs you like a computer,” and “knows all your private thoughts and secrets.”  Mature Christians will agree both that self-will within finite created beings and living creatures appears as a product from divine consciousness and sovereign will, and that self-will has been provided to the living so they may carryout and fulfill eternal purposes that have been established as basic to their own lives.  Sacred (rather than secular) knowledge is comprised of information, principles, and expressions of divine will such as law, miracles and sacramental events, proclamations and utterances by spirit beings as well as promise, prophecy, revelation, and relationships that have their origin and value through GOD.

The process of “knowing” that exists among mankind as a requirement to participate in the world is carnal, mental, and social, and relies upon such limited tools as appetite, emotion, imagination, logic, philosophy, science, and technology.  By contrast, awareness and “knowing” for divinity may be spoken of as a kaleidoscopic spirit process wherein inseparable content from the makeup of GOD are ceaselessly positioned, joined, patterned, and reconfigured.  As a movement of spirit substance, divine knowing is active, detailed, diffuse, organic, quickened and unspecified, yet, must be acknowledged as immutable, incorruptible, and unchanging.  Existing as a “godhead” (summation of all divine person and power) that displays oneness without sameness, Deity is incarnate as well as at once selfless and continually self-engaged.  Thus, we speak of divine knowing as categorical, comprehensive and unbounded even when appearing in communication, exchange, focus, interaction, and judgment.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC