(11/19/2020) The Power We Receive

The image depicts the appearing of Jesus Christ in glory (we say also say, the harvest, the Rapture, the Second Coming).

Today, reply is on the character, makeup, and nature of the sacred power Christian believers receive through baptism that establishes their new condition as the offspring of GOD having resurrection-life and existence as the new creation of Jesus Christ. The gifts men are to receive from GOD will transform them so they display authentic humanity, rather than behave as bosses, bullies, or supermen supplied with magic, strength, and unnatural abilities. Correctly understood, there must be the death, burial, and resurrection from the dead of ones inborn spirit; and there will be growth and ongoing works by divinity. In addition to divine law the holy writings provide a record of sacred judgments against sin along with divine proclamations, promises, and prophecies. While the focus and process of sacred law in the Scriptures opposes finite human self-will, imposes death and mortality, and concludes that all mankind is to exist under sin, there also are multiple promises and provisions for humanity so that the living have presence from the makeup of GOD as new life. It is written: 1^st John 3: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “God Hates You ATM; Prov 6:16-19” (Level 1 with 21 points) posted the following:

Re: John 1:12 Where is today’s Christians’ POWER received after Holy Spirit baptism (Acts 1:5;8) to become the sons of GOD?

Updated 8 mins ago:

@SIN

WHY AREN’T YOU OUT THERE THEN?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3: 22-28, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Appeals Directed to Spirit (11/08/2020); The Spirits Are Subject (10/28/2020); GOD Can Forgive Us (09/13/2020); Divine Character Must Appear (08/13/2020); Divine Process and Substance (06/24/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); A Habitation of Spirit (04/05/2020)

“God Hates You ATM; Prov 6:16-19”, Christians do not receive power from GOD that may be used independently and self-managed as though one is apart and separated from divinity. Sinners and those continuing to express the inborn spirit that resides within the flesh and mind of mankind often approach divinity only because they covet (i.e., want to possess; make empty and void; use up) the authority, dominion, and power that belongs to GOD as the Creator, origin, and source for all that has existence and life. Such “believers” pursue selfish goals and vain hopes that cannot be realized by those on the earth for they rely on finite self-will; moreover, they lack the willpower required to carry out sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. The character, process and substance of power must be acknowledged as alive, incorruptible, unchanging, and invisible. Spirit continues as life essence (breath; spirit; word) in its form and function. Believers are to be vessels of inseparable aspects of consecrated fullness imparted from the makeup of GOD that include balance, commitment, faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, restraint, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The elements of divine power are not to be thought of as coercion, force, and violence so much as they are to be understood as compassion, discovery, forgiveness, gradual growth, grace, mercy for those found guilty in judgment, reconciliation, and sobriety. Those who become “born again” while existing on the earth must undergo permanent change through operations of the Holy Spirit whereby they “grow up again” to become mature/ripe for harvest by the Lord at his appearing. The transformation to become complete and perfected as life companions to divinity will occur at the Advent (Second Coming) as believers behold the redeemer and savior in glory. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of the virtual youth choir at Villa Alegre Bible Baptist Church (Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City (Manila), Philippines):

(1.) John 3: 6-8, King James Version (KJV): 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

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

(3.) Romans 8: 1-10, KJV: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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. 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Trust His Heart by Babbie Mason and Eddie Carswell @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSd-Wmd9Adc. ) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 11:15 AM, November 19, 2020 @ https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8J26FS9_0hY/maxresdefault.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/10/2020) Made Perfect By Divinity

Today, reply is on the requirement that covenant relationship as a Christian demands “perfection”. Followers of Jesus Christ are to be made divine in their nature and possibilities through the final sacred acts that complete the transformation of mankind to exist as an eternal companion to divinity. Like depending on Jesus to provide immortality and incorruptibility, submitting to be made perfect through the operations of GOD does not discourage, intimidate, or go beyond what followers of the Lord will accomplish by relying on the finished works of Christ. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 15: 50-57, King James Version (KJV): 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion ^ Spirituality who uses the ID “jimmie” (Level 1 with 242 points) posted the following:

Since even the prophets weren’t perfect people how are we supposed to be perfect?

God forgives

Updated 29 secs ago:

God is real

THE GOLDEN ARROW: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (James 1: 2-4, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Spirits Are Subject (10/28/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); They Which Are Called (04/09/2020); Pray For Your Enemies? (01/03/2020); Spiritual Combat Against Sin (10/11/2019); The Perfection Of Divinity (09/17/2019); How Sinners Become Perfect (11/26/2018)

“jimmie”, among Christians, to be “perfect” is to lack nothing, and to be in a divine process of transformation, yet, to display fullness, integrity, and soundness. There are assurances and promises from GOD that seal and make divine proclamations and prophecy as if “already done.” Perfection may be attributed to someone (i.e., imputed) even though it is developing and ongoing. In the same way our becoming adult requires that we increasingly display maturity (such features as accountability, balance, consistency, sobriety, stability) and do not simply age or get older, sinners who become “born again” following the death and burial of their inborn spirit through water baptism must “grow up again” and be made ripe for harvest from the earth by Jesus Christ at his coming. The final operations to establish perfection are completed as those in resurrection and those lifted up go to meet the Savior in the air. While still on the earth, sinners are to acknowledge forbearance, forgiveness and divine restraint that are expressions of celestial grace, rather than the direct outcomes and results of divine judgment. Every Christian believer must undergo permanent change that is provided by multiple operations of the Holy Spirit. Included are edification, gradual growth, justification, repentance, reconciliation, sanctification, and willingness to perform unselfish service. Along with demonstrating the “patience of the saints,” those who will follow Christ are to exist as the new creation displaying divine substance such as longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, praise, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Believers are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus within their own lifestyle and daily routines. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and a selection from the music ministry of Babbie Mason:

(1.) 1^st Kings 8: 57-66, King James Version (KJV): 57 The LORD our God be with us, as he was with our fathers: let him not leave us, nor forsake us: 58 That he may incline our hearts unto him, to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and his statutes, and his judgments, which he commanded our fathers. 59 And let these my words, wherewith I have made supplication before the LORD, be nigh unto the LORD our God day and night, that he maintain the cause of his servant, and the cause of his people Israel at all times, as the matter shall require: 60 That all the people of the earth may know that the LORD is God, and that there is none else. 61 Let your heart therefore be perfect with the LORD our God, to walk in his statutes, and to keep his commandments, as at this day. 62 And the king, and all Israel with him, offered sacrifice before the LORD. 63 And Solomon offered a sacrifice of peace offerings, which he offered unto the LORD, two and twenty thousand oxen, and an hundred and twenty thousand sheep. So the king and all the children of Israel dedicated the house of the LORD. 64 The same day did the king hallow the middle of the court that was before the house of the LORD: for there he offered burnt offerings, and meat offerings, and the fat of the peace offerings: because the brasen altar that was before the LORD was too little to receive the burnt offerings, and meat offerings, and the fat of the peace offerings. 65 And at that time Solomon held a feast, and all Israel with him, a great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt, before the LORD our God, seven days and seven days, even fourteen days. 66 On the eighth day he sent the people away: and they blessed the king, and went unto their tents joyful and glad of heart for all the goodness that the LORD had done for David his servant, and for Israel his people.

(2.) Matthew 5: 43-48, KJV: 43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

(3.) Romans 4: 8-13, KJV: 8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: 12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Pray On by Babbie Mason @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agh0uZZ0Bxc.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 1:00 PM, November 10, 2020 @ https://images.search.yahoo.com/images/

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/19/2018) Blessed Assurances Are Provided

 

Today, reply is on the many assurances of salvation that are being provided by divinity. The fighter in the public forum at “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “DWILSO1034” (Level 1 with 187 points, a member since January 20, 2006) posted the following:

 

Why is Salvation Assurance so important?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. (2^nd Timothy 2: 19, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Witness of Oceans (06/28/2018); Jesus Came To Fulfill? (01/16/2018); Certainty, Conviction and Faith (01/05/2018); Enduring As A Believer? (12/06/2015); Knowing? (05/24/2015); Knowing the Spirit is Inside? 10/07/2014); Assurances of Salvation? (10/07/2013); Of War and Judgment (10/08/2013)

 

“DWILSO1034”, be encouraged! The many separations from our Savior Jesus Christ that Christians must endure until his Second Coming have been rendered less damaging by the empty tomb, and continuing blessed assurances. The certainty of salvation is being established by GOD as ongoing truth among mankind, the holy angels, and all Creation (i.e., the hills, the mountains, the valleys, the waters). Included have been the “active presence” of divinity on the earth using human flesh (we say, Incarnation) as Jesus Christ; covenants, proclamations, promises, and prophecy; the granting of forgiveness and new life to sinners through water baptism (i.e., the death and burial of ones inborn spirit with its rebirth (resurrection) from divine seed); the sacred gifts from the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth); and that the children of GOD through Jesus Christ who are the “new creation” will be marked and sealed. In the same way a man who buys a house makes a long-term commitment of indefinite duration and shows “good faith” by providing partial payment up front (we say, a down payment; an earnest; a pledge) divinity has responded to the character and nature of finite created beings and living creatures with divine operations and process that respond to their personhood. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) 1^st Peter 4: 14-16, King James Version (KJV): 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.

(2.) 2^nd Peter 1: 3-5, KJV: 3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

(3.) 2^nd Corinthians 5: 4-7, KJV: 4 For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. 5 Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. 6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: 7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

(4.) Galatians 5: 17, KJV: 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

(5.) 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.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (6.) 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

(02/03/2015) Why Did Jesus Heal?

Today, points are shared on healing, miracles, and the ongoing revelation that is Christian belief.  As the appearance of GOD in flesh (we say, incarnate), Jesus Christ healed because men needed healing for the body, the mind, and the spirit; and many ceaselessly petitioned for healing in their prayers to GOD.  Healing continues to be practiced as a natural device for ministry to make visible the necessary unity of flesh and Spirit.  Those who argue against divine law and divine love also argue that healing miracles are interference and attacks by divinity to discredit self-will within created beings and living creatures.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Hope is certainty” (Level 7 with 244,700 points, a member since February 07, 2007) posted the following:

 

Religion and Spirituality..Did Jesus heal with miracles so people would believe in him, or so believers could learn from him and also heal?

Update : I think it’s the latter

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.  Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:  But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:  Which none of the princes of this world knew:  for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.  But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit:  for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.  For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.  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.  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.  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.  (1st Corinthians 2:  5-14, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Healing is By Relationship? (09/27/2014); Miracles Are From GOD (03/14/2014); Giving Forgiveness? (03/15/2014); “Prayer Death”? (02/21/2014); The 2nd Prayer Death (02/22/2014); Miracles are Sacred Events (12/20/2013); Resisting Sin (02/21/2013); Naaman the Leper (12/21/2012); Did Jesus Know? (12/22/2012)

 

“Hope is certainty”, here are a few points on divine healing and miracles that are also important to mature Christian believers:

(1.)  The Savior demonstrated the divine power to heal as a further aspect of the full ongoing revelation of divinity to all created beings and living creatures.  The sacred process of salvation is not simply forgiveness for sin, it is also an introduction of new covenants and mechanisms for relationship with Deity, the cancellation of penalties resulting from sin, the fulfillment of divine obligations and promises, a provision for atonement and spiritual transformation as well as a rebirth that erases the effects and consequences of sin.

(2.)  Miracles are lawful sacred events through operations upon natural order that provide a further revelation of the authority, power, sovereignty and wisdom that are to be recognized describing the personal nature of divinity.  Miracles accompany prophecy and sacred proclamations as the divine seal and signature proving authenticity, genuineness, legitimacy and validity.  While miracles may result from operations of a believer’s faith, a believer’s faith is not always affirmed and increased by miracles.  Many are challenged, confused, and made fearful by extraordinary, or supernatural events that may be taken as occult.  Others become spiritually combative, disbelieving, intractable, skeptical, and stubborn.

(3.)  Through baptism (death of ones inborn spirit, rebirth from spirit content imparted by GOD) the makeup of believers in Jesus is permanently changed.  Believers are equipped to discern, recognize and respond to the active presence of GOD, and the multiple operations of the Holy Spirit.  Yet, all continue within the same carnal, physical, and social settings upon the earth.  Both baptism and healing appear as divine gifts that serve as assurances:  The commitment of divinity is to life, rather than to death.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Many think of healing miracles as a disruption of the cycles, natural order, and mechanical processes of life.  They hold that miracles by GOD upon and within the flesh are hostile intrusions, interruptions of human ascendancy, and destructive denials of secular truth.  Others welcome miracles as necessary intercession and intervention that may benefit both the quick and the dead.  Increasingly, believers are proclaiming that GOD heals in three ways:  through medical science and practitioners; through faith; and by resurrection from the dead.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to the measure of your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/09/2015) How GOD Answers Prayer?

Topics today include divine answers to prayer, and the operations of GOD that provide assurances, nourishment and promise.  The “Yahoo! Answers“” fighter using the ID “X” (Level 3 with 1,008 points, a member since February 21, 2013) posted the following:

 

Christians: How are you answered by God? When you say you pray for answers, how does God give you those answers?

Does he literally talk to you? do you take things that happen in your life as signs?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:  Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.  And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.  And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.  So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.  As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.  Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;  Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;  And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;  Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.  (Hebrews 5:  1-10, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Saved by a Prayer? (10/31/2014); Is Prayer an Act of Faith? (11/01/2014); Perfection and Prayer? (08/27/2014); “Prayer Death”? (02/21/2014); The 2nd Prayer Death (02/22/2014); Intercession (12/27/2013); Jesus Is GOD’s Word (12/28/2013); Why GOD Prayed to GOD (09/07/2013); Utterance is Spirit (09/08/2013); A Start for the Idea of GOD? (09/09/2013); Unanswered Prayers? (09/11/2012); When You Pray (09/12/2012)

 

“X”, Christian believers are not given “answers” so much as assurances, nourishment, and promises.  Here are a few points that may clarify the assurances shared by many Christian believers:

(1.)  GOD is a spirit who has put forth material beings to  whom he appears using abstract and physical forms, events and objects within the various spheres of life that allow both existence and duration.  (Thus, even a human body may exist that is not alive; divinity has appeared using flesh and incarnate as Jesus Christ; mind is abstract, brain is physical; and mortality has limited duration.)  The most complete and correct communication, the most intimate revelation of eternal GOD to finite created beings and living creatures is accomplished through endowments of divinity within their own inner substance.  We say, believers must be born again to operate having a fresh deposit of divine content from the makeup of Deity.  Inseparable aspects of divinity must be received such as faith, holiness, righteousness, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(2.)  Simply put, the intent or purpose of divinity is to be, and continue emanating (we say, breathing, putting forth, shining out) sacred substance.  However, the operations of sin oppose the continued existence of divine law, the Law Giver, and the full Creation dependent upon sacred law for divine order.  Because sin may dominate intelligence and self-will in finite creatures, relationship with the Creator is only possible by GOD carrying out and completing multiple sacred events and process to fulfill divine commitments and  eternal purpose.  Included are atonement, forgiveness, salvation, death, rebirth, resurrection, sanctification, and final judgment.

(3.)  The broad range of tools employed by divinity to reveal divine presence and sacred will now include the written word; the imparted inner spirit (called the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) that may direct and focus consciousness in the living; exchange and fellowship with those who are now the body of Christ, for those having the Holy Spirit serve as spokespersons for divinity; sacred events (we say, miracles); the challenges and natural life events that establish maturity; and life experiences through the practice of sacraments.

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Where believers offer prayer as a matter of self-expression, rather than a response inviting divine expression, they operate as “strangers” ignoring or not knowing the character, person, and process of divinity.  Many do not agree, or correctly understand, that GOD will only respond to prayers that acknowledge and fulfill divine intent.  So to speak, we must ask from GOD what only GOD may supply.  The prayers of those expressing desire, lust and selfish need have to be their own answers.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(10/08/2013) Of War and Judgment

Focus, today, is upon covenant, sacrifice, and warfare as divine operations in Scripture to establish sacred relationship.  Also, there is more on the assurances for salvation.  The “Yahoo!7 Answers (Australia)” writer using ID “Jens Pawtroski” (Level 1 with 199 points, a member since 2 November 2011) posted the following:

 

Somone for the love of God rationalize Numbers 31 17-18!?

First of all atheists do not bother to answer since this is a question directed at christian ONLY.

I am a christian 18 years old and have been having trouble with the many of the killings and war in the OT as it seems out of sync with Jesus in the NT. This is like the fifth time I have asked this question here on YA so i would appriciate it if you could help me out here.

I have read that many of the wars and killings in the OT are allergorical and hyperbole. Meaning that when they say for an example: “They put them all to the sword and left nothing alive that breathes” It really means that they kicked their asses and won. Not literally that they killed everyone including women and children.

There is alot of evidence for this that many of the war accounts use hyperboles and not all they say is to be understood literally but I won’t go into detail now. Anyway do you think this could be the case here? I can understand that God would kill those who had already committed great sins such as the midinite women who were not virgins but the little boys? Can you imagine going around hacking and slashing 2-3-4 year olds to pieces? I don’t know about you but MY God would never command such. Again I am not trying to bash the bible but I am seeking answers for something that really bothers me.

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  Assurances of Salvation? (10/06/2013)—(5)  The many gifts from GOD through his Spirit make possible the confidence of believers.  Fresh spirit content from GOD equip believers to increasingly operate having discernment (i.e., ability to correctly recognize the godliness and spirit content in events, other persons, things that are spoken or written, etc.).  Using discernment, believers are able to avoid situations set up to attack, confuse, destroy and discourage belief.  They do not allow themselves to become bogged down, depressed, dominated and entangled by those who insult and undermine their faith; believers are those grateful, saved and under the authority of Jesus Christ.  Christian believers acquire holy boldness that serves like courage or fearlessness, making it possible to approach GOD to seek correction, forgiveness, help, and spiritual supplies; and making it possible to see that every “enemy” is already defeated.  Believers do not always get every material thing they may desire, or feel they want as humans in flesh.  However, with the record of covenant duties discharged, answered prayers, divine promises fulfilled, and prophecy continuing to be in force, all believers may have incontestable certainty for their sacred expectations (we say, hope).  See Deuteronomy 28:  1-48, Hebrews 10:  15-30, 1st John 2:  1-3 and 1st John 4:  16-18, King James Version.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth:  and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.  And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell:  but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.  And the people answered and said, God forbid that we should forsake the LORD, to serve other gods;  For the LORD our God, he it is that brought us up and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage, and which did those great signs in our sight, and preserved us in all the way wherein we went, and among all the people through whom we passed:  And the LORD drave out from before us all the people, even the Amorites which dwelt in the land:  therefore will we also serve the LORD; for he is our God.  And Joshua said unto the people, Ye cannot serve the LORD:  for he is an holy God; he is a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins.  If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath done you good.  And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD.  And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him.  And they said, We are witnesses.  Now therefore put away, said he, the strange gods which are among you, and incline your heart unto the LORD God of Israel.  And the people said unto Joshua, The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.  So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day, and set them a statute and an ordinance in Shechem.  And Joshua wrote these words in the book of the law of God, and took a great stone, and set it up there under an oak, that was by the sanctuary of the LORD.  And Joshua said unto all the people, Behold, this stone shall be a witness unto us; for it hath heard all the words of the LORD which he spake unto us:  it shall be therefore a witness unto you, lest ye deny your God.  (Joshua 24:  14-27, KJV)

 

DOUBLE DAGGER:  Jericho Justified? (07/02/2013); Theoretical Forgiveness? (07/03/2013); Why Did The Judges Fight? (10/19/2012); The Spirit is Willing (10/20/2012); Mob Rule and Violence (09/27/2012); Suppose I Am Wrong? (09/28/2012)

 

Jens, here are a few points Christian believers find useful to avoid spiritual confusion when considering accounts of warfare in the holy writings:

(1.)  GOD is a spirit who uses divine utterance and sacred events to reveal divinity among and to created beings and living creatures.  Included are commands, miracles, praise, promises, prophecy, and vision.  Judgments against sin (we often say, plagues, punishments) are commanded by GOD that appear in the Scriptures as warfare between tribes and nations.

(2.)  Many of the nations that come under the utter destruction of GOD in seeming warfare are in covenant and sacrificial relationships with GOD.  Those who left Egypt with Moses, the twelve tribes of Jacob and the mixed multitude (we say, Gentiles), were called into covenant as an instrument to restore a peculiar balance between heaven and earth, GOD and mankind.  Those who violate covenant do more than simply sin in behavior and conduct that is naughty.  As with the betrayal of Judas, they overthrow divine relationship, and disturb cosmic order throughout the universe.

In addition to breaking off revenge, judgment, redemption, and salvation, there are multiple topics and issues, here, that one comes to understand only by spirit growth.  There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (3.)  Devices for Divine Person and finite beings to be in continuing relationship that cannot be ended by death have included dynasty, family, inheritance, divine proclamation and promise.  What GOD begins in the life of one individual (e.g., Abraham) may be completed through the lives of others (e.g., Moses) who continue in the same posture to GOD.  By death on the cross as an altar and holy table where heaven and earth are joined, Jesus established a greater way for intimate relationship.  Mankind now receives a fresh endowment of sacred content from the makeup and person of GOD.  Included are faith, holiness, gratitude, joy, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(10/07/2013) Assurances of Salvation?

Today, response is made to a writer who sees all Christians as under condemnation, despite divine forgiveness.  Also, there is more on how both death and resurrection are shown in Jesus Christ.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “The Truth Hurts” (Level 3 with 1,838 points, a member since August 12, 2013) posted the following:

 

How do Christians feel knowing that they will go to hell?

When they sin they disobey God and sin leads them to hell. It means that all Christians will go there since everyone has sinned sometime in their lifetime.

Additional Details

So God forgives? Great that means that if they ask for forgiveness everyone can go to heaven then.

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013)—  (5)  Many make the mistake of thinking the resurrection of Jesus only restored his life and healed his body, and that this, in effect, cancelled the death of Jesus upon the cross.  In addition to a re-joining of ones physical body (flesh) and life essence (spirit), resurrection is a sacred event that includes ones appearance in the celestial presence (we say, heaven), and is more than simply reanimating the dead upon the earth.  The transformation of created being and flesh is made whereby the mortal is made immortal, and the corruptible is made incorruptible (many say, one is made permanently sanctified).  Jesus raised the dead on several occasions:  he raised the ruler of the synagogue’s daughter in private, before a few witnesses; he raised the widow of Nain’s son in public before a huge crowd arriving into the city with Jesus, and a second huge crowd leaving the city with the mother and body of her child; and Jesus raised Lazarus days after his internment.  These miracles of life were provided as assurances that Jesus would be able to complete the necessary work of divine atonement.  Lazarus and the others all died again in order that they might be resurrected.  Jesus must become sin upon the cross; and the death of Jesus (the destruction of sin) must occur before the Savior may demonstrate resurrection to mankind.  See Mark 5:  35-43, John 7:  11-16, John 11:  18-45, John 10:  17-19 and Romans 6:  3-5, King James Version.

 

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:  Those Who Never Heard? (06/07/2013); If You Are Sent…? (06/08/2013); Scriptures and Sayings? (06/09/2013); Understanding Hell (01/09/2013); The Golden Age? (01/10/2013); The Place for Eternal Life? (01/06/2013); Therefore There Was Trust (01/07/2013); When Does Gossip Become Sin? (01/08/2013); The Gospel not Logical (09/16/2012); Unwelcome Gifts? (09/17/2012)

 

“The Truth Hurts”, the truth of GOD revealed in Jesus Christ can not be completely and correctly understood without a personal experience of the operation of divine spirit that must be received by every believer.  Even so, here are a few points to consider that have been very helpful to those not yet in Christ, and not yet having Christ in them:

(1)  GOD is a spirit who has content, person, power and presence.  The Creation of GOD is being established through multiple operations of divinity.  Included are birth, death, forgiveness, judgment, reconciliation, repentance, and revelation.

(2)  GOD continues to appear among mankind through sacred events (e.g., government, miracles, worship), holy writings, and divine utterance (e.g., praise, proclamation, promise, prophecy).  Even responses to readers and writers online may convey aspects of the inseparable spirit content from Divine Person.  Included are faith, gratitude, holiness, hope, humility, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

(3)  Christian believers are given many experiences that serve as assurance and guarantee of their salvation.  In addition to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, believers are endowed with the imparted, indwelling Spirit of GOD (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Sprit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  Through baptism, each believer is altered and changed by GOD, as if dying and being born again from divine DNA.

This is not the whole story.  No one can tell you everything, yet, you may discover all for yourself.  There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4)  Born again believers must become perfected (we say, balanced, mature, stable).  They must meet the same challenges of life in the earth as nonbelievers, however, they are now equipped with divine content that makes sin more contrary to their nature, easier to recognize, and easier to resist.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC