(11/05/2019) Disciples and “Little Christs”

 

Today, reply is on the use of “Christians” as a name for the followers of Jesus Christ who are his church and the new creation. Jesus began to proclaim the doctrines and teachings that were the foundation for his church by reading aloud from the Scriptures each Sabbath during worship within a synagogue that endorsed the Covenant of Moses. Even so, the foundation and rock whereon the church, and a new covenant for Israel, would come to rest would be the blood of Jesus, and his believers having consciousness and sacred knowledge through fresh endowments of spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD. The full gospel and revelation through Jesus Christ addresses all mankind in every age, from Adam to the saints who will meet Christ in the air at his Advent (we also say, his appearing; the harvest; the Rapture; the Second Coming). It is written: Ephesians 2: 11-22, King James Version (KJV): 11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: 17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Stevan” (Level 1 with 16 points) posted the following:

 

Why are Christians called christians if the worship the jewish god. Why arent they just called jews?

 

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: No Wall of Partition (07/05/2019); Christians Are Following Jesus (01/24/2019); The Household Of Cornelius (05/17/2018); One Root, One Harvest (11/12/2017); Does GOD Hate Jews? (10/03/2016); Academic Language? (12/10/2015); On Cults (08/30/2012); A House of gods? (08/31/2012)

 

“Stevan”, here are a few points you may find helpful: The goal of every Christian should be to display the image of GOD, and to be Christ-like as the offspring and joint-heirs of GOD with Jesus Christ. Jesus began his ministry as a rabbi and an itinerant preacher who traveled from place to place within Canaan (i.e., the land then under Roman rule that was occupied through Moses and Joshua as the inheritance of the 12 tribes of Jacob; the Promised Land; Israel as the United Kingdom). This included Samaria where Jesus grew up (also called the ten tribes; Israel; the Northern Kingdom) and Juda (also called the 2 tribes; Judea; the Southern Kingdom). In addition to teaching “the law and the prophets,” Jesus also healed those with disability and sickness (e.g., blindness, fever, paralysis), cast out unclean spirits (exorcisms), and performed miracles. At first, the apostles were used as advance men to announce the coming of Jesus, and to prepare a community to receive his ministry. Because of sacred law, custom, and tradition, those sent by Jesus were not to serve among people outside the covenant of Moses (Gentiles). Later, still before his death on the cross, the church founded by Jesus Christ would be built up and continue to increase through evangelism and outreach ministries by his apostles and disciples. Approaching the time of Jesus dying on the cross, development of the church and its operations became centered within the Temple in Jerusalem of Judea. The Pharisees and Sadducees who led the Temple community regarded Jesus and his followers as outsiders and a dangerous cult. After the death of Jesus his disciples were first called “Christians” (Little Christs) to mock them the way some might say, Little Clones, Little Copy-cats, Little Wannabes. Consider the following that use language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Marty Goetz:

1. Matthew 10: 5-8, King James Version (KJV): 5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.

2. Acts 11: 19-22, KJV: 19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. 20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. 22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.

3. Acts 11: 25-27, KJV: 25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. 27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.

4. Romans 3: 29, KJV: 29 Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, 5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0du_eT0MigM.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 1:22 PM, November 04, 2019 @ https://image.slidesharecdn.com/ddr3yaz2sfwkb4umiyas-signature-cfa9e74169727ba77920e3e5213b0537b98048a82350edd8ee6504295f4d8650-poli-160213144656/95/reach-together-ephesians-lesson-4-john-lusk-21416-7-638.jpg?cb=1456629256

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/23/2019) The Confusions of Halloween

 

Today, reply is on Christian beliefs, spiritual confusion, and the celebration of Halloween. Christianity is to appear among mankind as correct expression of accountability, maturity, sacred knowledge, and spirit content imparted from the makeup of GOD. The observance of Halloween and other holiday celebrations have been examined by Christian adults, and are now increasingly challenged regarding their value for sinners coming to Christ by repentance, and for the gradual growth and development of youth receiving Christ as their inheritance. In addition to promoting conflict and division among believers, holidays, celebrations, customs, and cultural traditions promoting parties and social behavior also encourage compromise, disbelief, hedonism, and skepticism. It is written: Luke 14: 25-27, King James Version (KJV): 25 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, 26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. 27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Ember (Level 1 with 78 points, a member since October 16, 2019) posted the following:

 

How do I tell my parents I don’t celebrate Halloween when I’m the only Christian in that household? My family are pagan and I’m not.?

I have told them I converted before but they took it as if I was being disrespectful and they’ve been mean, and my mom didn’t take it well. They didn’t take me telling them I converted well.. . Idk what to do

 

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

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Heathen and Pagan Ways (09/01/2019); Jesus In This Environment? (04/30/2019); Anger Against Our Parents? (01/10/2019); Why Paul Observed Tradition (07/10/2018); Sacred Ministry or Parenting? (05/10/2018); The Joy of Christmas (01/05/2017); The Meaning of Christmas? (12/22/2016); A Day For Forgiveness? (12/25/2015)

 

“Ember”, the meaning and value of holidays during our stages of childhood must change as we develop and grow. Even so, for many Christian families the occasions for public celebration and the observance of holidays are increasingly becoming recognized as toxic for the home and within the community of faith. Like welcoming a wolf in sheep’s clothing, acknowledging things from the popular culture, customs, family law, and traditions of the world always entails great risk disguised as affirming and bonding community, child-like innocence, play, and recreation. Rather than proclaiming the things of redemption and salvation through Jesus Christ, often those who embrace Halloween further the expression of things carnal, material, and demonic along with the occult, sorcery, the supernatural, and superstition. A use and focus on graphic images, icons, and symbols are promoted that contend against balance, faith, godliness, and maturity. Death, destruction, division, fear, and accepting the operations of sin unknowingly are endorsed and promoted. The recognition of such events as anniversaries, birthdays, and the completion of harvest also have become tainted by elements promoting depression, excess, gluttony, and imbalance. Major feasts such as dia de los Muertos, Saint Patrick’s day, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter are in danger of losing all piety, righteousness, and their saintly spirit character. While you are in the home of your parents, you must respect their right to freely express their own beliefs and values without having to answer continual condemnation, criticism, or disrespect from their children and other members of the household. You are to “win them over” by acknowledging and displaying such aspects of sacred spirit as faith, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, and wisdom. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 13: 11-12, King James Version (KJV): 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

(2.) Galatians 2: 16, KJV: 16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

(3.) Galatians 5: 16-23, KJV: 16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 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. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmwRnDa-iXM&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLMTSzGiuTABz_u7Lqbc7AF8&index=5&t=0s.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 2:50 PM, October 23, 2019 @ https://www.nationalgeographic.com.au/people/why-do-we-celebrate-halloween.aspx

 

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: For most Christians, the benefits and rejoicing through sacred and secular celebrations are not the same. Christmas should not be compared against Kwanzaa; family reunion should not be compared to Resurrection Sunday; Sabbath should not be compared with Sunday. Anniversaries and memorials of sacred events (we often say, miracles) should acknowledge acts of GOD and mysteries from the past, yet also invoke and call forth (1) the same benefits, blessings, duties, and gifts provided earlier, (2) completion, fulfillment, or repetition of the original works, (3) re-dedication and revival as of ones assembly and the full church as well as (4) renewal of each believer’s own relationship with divinity. Commanded expectations (hope) and sacred purpose are reignited and reinvigorated; and those who labor preparing the harvest to be taken up at the coming of Jesus Christ as Lord receive needed rest and refreshing.

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/24/2019) Following The Apostle Paul

 

Today, reply is on following the Apostle Paul as a model for Christian believers. Mature Christian believers respect one another, and will acknowledge the authority vested in clergy and elders, yet, they regard themselves as following no one in the flesh. Correctly understood, the saints follow Jesus Christ only. It is written: John 14: 6, King James Version (KJV): 6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Saul of Tarsus was called by GOD to provide structure to the early church when its members were still being condemned as a cult among the Jews, and during a time of persecution. Saul was to serve as an evangelist among Gentiles as well as an apostle (i.e., a witness to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and one anointed to authenticate manifestations of the Holy Spirit that fell at Pentecost). It was the Apostle Paul who commissioned Timothy to anoint and ordain bishops and deacons within the church. Sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ become “born again” and are to mature (we say, “grow up again”) as the offspring of GOD, joint-heirs with Christ, and the new creation. All are to serve as vessels containing fresh endowments of spirit imparted from the divine fullness. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Developing believers also are to display the image of GOD, and the likeness of Jesus Christ. An anonymous fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality (no profile information shown) posted the question:

 

Why did Paul have to demonstrate the Spirit and power but we don’t have to although I Cor 11:1 says “Follow me as I follow Christ”?

Update: PAUL SAID IN I CORINTHIANS 2:2-4

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”

I CORINTHIANS 11:1 SAYS

“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ”

WHY DON’T WE FOLLOW PAUL?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. (1^st Corinthians 3: 8-15, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Prophets After Jesus Christ? (06/04/2019); Authentic Experiences From GOD (05/14/2019); A Single Sacred Revelation (01/09/2019); Built Upon The Spirit (11/29/2018); Why Paul Observed Tradition (07/10/2018); The Pattern To Follow? (01/19/2018); The Water, The Fire (10/10/2017)

 

Mature Christian believers follow the Apostle Paul the same way they follow the Priesthood of Adam, of Moses as Prophet, and of John the Baptist as the Herald of Christ. Rather than conform to carnal, material, and social things of the flesh, believers follow Jesus Christ as he appears through sacred devices such as divine law, doctrine, principles, promises, and prophecies. Disciples of Christ will discern inseparable aspects of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of GOD., rather than ancient doctrines and practices. Many judges, kings, and prophets appeared who demonstrated and portrayed elements from the full gospel that eventually would be manifest through divinity appearing in flesh as Jesus Christ. While believers are recruited to spread the gospel, and prepare a peculiar people for GOD, the church founded by Jesus is not to be a collection of clones, copies, and one-dimensional figures. Within the body, there are multiple tasks to be completed, different principles that must be clarified, and multiple messages to be proclaimed. Therefore, there is a “division of labor,” and various mechanisms for oversight and supervision. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. Acts 6: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. 5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

2. Ephesians 4: 4-7, KJV: 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. 7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

3. 1^st Corinthians 1: 9-10, KJV: 9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

4. Romans 12: 4-8, KJV: 4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: 5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVAh6OSrtfE.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 10:20 AM, September 24, 2019 @ https://struckbygrace.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/apostle-paul.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/22/2019) Kings, Popes, Priests, Prophets?

The image depicts Christ calling those who would to serve as apostles, his first disciples, laborers for the harvest and fishers of men.

 

Today, reply is to a fighter who compares forms of government and spiritual leadership on the earth. Properly understood, apostles, bishops, deacons, and pastors (shepherds) preside as officers over faith communities and congregations. The present plan of divinity is that mankind exist as a kingdom where all will communicate and operate as offspring of GOD. Saints and those joined to GOD share a fresh endowment of spirit content imparted from the makeup of divinity (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth). Even many developing Christian believers err when comparing priests—who are officially anointed and ordained to offer sacrifices on a holy table (altar) where heaven and earth are joined—against prophets—who are appointed as spokespersons sent by GOD. Where GOD once provided patriarchs, elders, and judges (deliverers), operations of the flesh and of sin resulted in the establishment of temporal authorities that included chiefs, emperors, governors, monarchs, pharaohs, and Caesars. Through Jesus Christ, mankind has received commandments, examples, and principles for conduct and relationship that serve as civil and sacred law from GOD. The church founded by Jesus is to be an eternal, sacred body; even so, many become entangled within institutions and organizations that use the name of Christ, yet, do not transform men to be Christ-like. In Christ, the dominion, ownership, and sovereignty of divine fullness has appeared and been made manifest on the earth using human form (we say, Incarnation). While the character, process and substance of GOD are entirely from spirit that is invisible and without form, divinity (we also say, the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) are to be acknowledged as presenting personhood, eternal purpose, and sovereign will. Inseparable aspects of divinity include faith, holiness, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. It is written: 1^st Samuel 12: 14-19, King James Version (KJV): 14 If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue following the LORD your God: 15 But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as it was against your fathers. 16 Now therefore stand and see this great thing, which the LORD will do before your eyes. 17 Is it not wheat harvest to day? I will call unto the LORD, and he shall send thunder and rain; that ye may perceive and see that your wickedness is great, which ye have done in the sight of the LORD, in asking you a king. 18 So Samuel called unto the Lord; and the LORD sent thunder and rain that day: and all the people greatly feared the LORD and Samuel. 19 And all the people said unto Samuel, Pray for thy servants unto the LORD thy God, that we die not: for we have added unto all our sins this evil, to ask us a king. “Anonymous” in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion and Spirituality (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

So Is the Queen/King of England like the protestant equivalent to the pope? I’m not impressed, spiritual leaders should be priests.?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all. (John 18: 36-38, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Conflict Among Multiple Wills? (09/20/2019); Why Jesus Comes Back (06/20/2019); Peace Or A Sword? (01/29/2019); Called “The Anointed One” (05/08/2018); Benefits of His Kingdom? (04/11/2017); First Seeking the Kingdom (03/03/2017); How Many Apostles? (04/30/2014); The Ruler Of the Earth? (05/01/2014); Succession (02/05/2014); On Youth Doing Enough (02/06/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, GOD is using multiple relationships to make divinity knowable, known, accessible, and approachable by created beings and living creatures. Monarchs and Popes rule over two forms/levels of community defined using carnal, physical, and social concepts. Divinity has used many different figures to guide and instruct those on the earth; and while there has been hierarchy, ranks, and other distinctions, competition and conflict have rarely been expressions of divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Among mature Christian believers, the holy writings also present the revelation of mankind’s growth and development while being restored from the effects of sin, and while undergoing a transformation to exist permanently as companions to divinity, who continue to relate to those on the earth as an invisible spirit in form and substance. Multiple devices and mechanisms have been used by divinity to communicate, exchange, and interact with created beings and living creatures. Included are oral history, priesthood, seers, and living tradition through Adam and the Patriarchs, who each lived for nearly 1,000 years. Continuity and relationship with the living that are uninterrupted by death have been maintained through such devices as family, inheritance, tribes, dynasty, empires, immutable unchanging truth, and nations as well as institutions and organizations chartered and sanctioned through civil and sacred law. Also the active presence we speak of as “GOD” has been acknowledged through birth, death, forgiveness, rebirth, healing, Incarnation, preaching, proclamation, promise, prophecy, resurrection, unselfish service, and suffering. That divinity has appeared on the earth using human form does not cancel divine ownership of the heaven and earth. Jesus Christ should be acknowledged as the highest and most complete embodiment of divine authority, dominion, and power over the earth. The anointing upon Jesus has been that of Chief Architect of the Holy City (New Jerusalem); High Priest; King; Sanctified Servant; Sacred Judge; Prophet; and the Firstborn from The Dead. Through the ministries of Jesus on the earth and from the heaven, developing and mature Christians are to exist as the new creation. As offspring of the Most High and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, all are to display the image of the Father, and the same life essence (breath; spirit; word) that was imparted to Adam from the makeup of divinity. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. Ephesians 4: 4-7, King James Version (KJV): 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all 7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

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

3. 1^st Corinthians 12: 27-31, KJV: 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

4. 1^st Timothy 5: 17-18, KJV: 17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, 5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5G8dZTWwvmU). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

 

AN AFTERTHOUGHT: Offices appear within the Catholic church as an institution that did not exist within the early church appearing in Scripture. Included are abbots, cardinals, confessors, monseigneur, and Pope. Before his conversion on the road to Damascus, Saul of Tarsus (later known as the Apostle Paul) filled a role as an executioner and an inquisitor who persecuted the early church on behalf of the Temple leaders at Jerusalem. Correctly understood, the authority of the Pope as infallible is the same as the dispensation granted Moses that allowed decision-making in judgment that could be authoritative and final unless a direct intervention by GOD would be required. The monarchs who have ruled over England, Great Britain and related territories have held the secular title of king, queen, emperor, and empress. A continuing argument has been made that succession for nobility and royalty are by dispensation of GOD and “divine right.” Also, the same laws of the realm for inheritance that govern the transfer of ordinary estates, goods, and property are cited as the true covenant declaring their benefits and privileges as well. The ruling monarch is regarded by many to be the temporal head of the Church of England. In the same way the Pope is head over the Vatican as an independent nation and sovereign state, and his authority is exceeded only by Jesus Christ, many hold the ruler of England is a chief officer of the church on the earth whose authority is only exceeded by Jesus Christ. Even so, many are cautioned to grasp that a house divided against itself can not stand. Given the multiple conflicts that arise because sacred and secular truth are often in opposition, these institutions appear built on sand, rather than the solid rock. Matthew 7: 24-27, King James Version (KJV): 24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: 25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. 26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: 27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

 

Image downloaded 7:49 AM, September 22, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/04/75/7b/04757b2dd02d0a0684e833bdb3001d64–fishers-of-men-jesus-calling.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/10/2019) To Be Jesus’ Sheep

 

Today, reply is on those who are the flock and sheep of Jesus Christ. The many multitudes that have received atonement, forgiveness, and reconciliation to divinity through the ministries of Jesus Christ include those in covenant with GOD from the days of Adam, the Patriarchs, the tribes of Jacob in Canaan, and the developing believers of the present age. As members of his body and his fruit from many cultures, languages, places and times, those who will be the harvest of Christ at his appearing will display great diversity as well as oneness without sameness. All these will come together for sacred service and worship within the holy city, the New Jerusalem. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

What does it mean to be Jesus’ sheep?

Matthew 25:35-46 has Jesus telling Christians to feed his sheep.

Who are Jesus’ sheep?

Are Jesus’ sheep those who are loyal to Jesus and his God Jehovah?

Are Jesus’ sheep those who do not know Jesus or Jehovah?

Who and what are Christian’s supposed to feed?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. (John 17: 16-23, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: According To Divine Purpose (06/09/2019); On Diversity and Equality (05/22/2018); From Glory to Glory (11/14/2017); Will There Be Diversity? (10/22/2017); My Sheep Hear My Voice (11/16/2016); Sheep of His Pasture (09/09/2016); The Sheep Who Lost Their Way? (11/18/2014); Restoring The Lost? (11/19/2014)

 

“Anonymous”, in the same way Jacob maintained the flocks of Laban, his father in-law, and had to develop his own separate flock, Christian believers understand that divinity appeared Incarnate on the earth as Jesus Christ (the Son) to gather and maintain the scattered flocks of the Father in heaven, and has developed his own separate flocks through sacred works of atonement, spiritual adoption, inheritance, rebirth, and new creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Ezekiel 34: 11-17, King James Version (KJV): 11 For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out. 12 As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. 13 And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country. 14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. 15 I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD. 16 I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment. 17 And as for you, O my flock, thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I judge between cattle and cattle, between the rams and the he goats.

2. Ezekiel 34: 26-31, KJV: 26 And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing. 27 And the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall know that I am the LORD, when I have broken the bands of their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them. 28 And they shall no more be a prey to the heathen, neither shall the beast of the land devour them; but they shall dwell safely, and none shall make them afraid. 29 And I will raise up for them a plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of the heathen any more. 30 Thus shall they know that I the LORD their God am with them, and that they, even the house of Israel, are my people, saith the Lord GOD. 31 And ye my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord GOD.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 3. 1^st Peter 5: 2-4, KJV: 2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 7:15 PM, June 10, 2019 @ https://image.slidesharecdn.com/gods-true-church2510/95/gods-true-church-a-bible-study-on-revelation-chapter-12-11-728.jpg?cb=1394569014

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(04/30/2019) Jesus In This Environment?

 

Today, reply is on Christian ministry, believers persevering by knowing “the end from the beginning,” and how disciples of Jesus must continue in ongoing sanctification. A little one who can recite their ABCs is able to tell you what comes after E-F-G. By knowing the full pattern, they may accurately say, H-I-J-K, or X-Y-Z is coming without practicing clairvoyance, or being able to read and write yet. Similarly, those choosing to follow Jesus Christ are not granted authority and power to read another person’s mind, foretell future events, or control all life conditions, consequences, and outcomes so much as they are supplied with discernment and sacred knowledge that allows them to realize the godliness of spirit within events, other persons, sacred writings, themselves, etc. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

 

What would my life be like if I believed in Jesus in this environment?

A good amount of my relatives are anti-Bible and dislike creationists. Many are pro-abortion, pro-gay marriage, and liberal. One of my aunts makes fun of the Bible and can’t stand it when the name Jesus is mentioned.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 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. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 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. (Romans 8: 3-9, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Ministry Is Through Relationship (03/05/2019); Will You Lose Family? (01/20/2019); Ye That Work Iniquity (09/24/2018); Be Not Unequally Yoked (04/16/2018); Recognizing True Christian Prophets (02/26/2018); Standing On The ABCs? (11/09/2017); Neither “All-knowing” Nor “Omniscient” (11/07/2017); Few Are Chosen (07/06/2015); Knowing? (05/24/2015)

 

“Anonymous”, among Christians, believers are to impart and share inseparable spirit substance from the makeup of GOD. Included are faith, holiness, longsuffering, patience, restraint, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The environment you describe is the same that Jesus explained would be in effect when instructing his apostles regarding ministry to those who would seek to be his followers. Those who minister are privilege to know “the end from the beginning.” As did Moses, those who minister Christ also must endure negative responses (e.g., challenges, defiance, disbelief, frustration, injustice, opposition, and persecution) from family, employers, neighbors, and others to whom they are sent. Also, among Christians, there is a continuous process of cleansing and separation (we say, “sanctification”) that establishes increasing distance between sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ and those who continue as disbelievers. The sinner must experience the death, burial, and resurrection of their own inborn spirit. Once “born again” and having a fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word) imparted from the makeup of GOD, the sinner is a developing believer who must “grow up again” and become mature/ripe for harvest by Jesus Christ at his appearing (we also say, the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). As offspring of GOD, the new creation of Jesus Christ, and vessels of divine substance, believers will be comforted, edified, and exhorted to meet life challenges on the earth. In addition to commitment, discernment that is an operation of the Spirit, doctrine, and sacred knowledge, Christians will be set apart from those in other systems of belief by their sacred practices and eternal purpose that include discovery, gradual growth, prayer, praise, the endurance of suffering, and unselfish service. Their transformation to exist as companions to immortal, incorruptible divinity will be completed “in the twinkling of an eye” as they leave the earth to meet Jesus in the air. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Matthew 10: 24-25, KJV: 24 The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. 25 It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?

2. Mark 6: 1-6, KJV: 1 And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him. 2 And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? 3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. 4 But Jesus, said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. 5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. 6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages, teaching.

3. 2^nd Timothy 3: 1-5, KJV: 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

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

 

Image downloaded 3:32 PM, April 30, 2019 @ https://purepurposebook.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/setapart.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/30/2019) Beautiful Upon The Mountains

 

Today, reply is on discernment, Incarnation, and the availability of descriptions for the physical appearance of Jesus Christ. Fully apprehending, realizing, and “seeing” Jesus will acknowledge both his carnal aspect (his flesh) and his divine aspect (his spirit). Features established within Jesus by the Holy Spirit (e.g., genuine anointing to prophesy, glory, righteousness, godly servitude) must be recognized and responded to by the application of ones own spirit content from the makeup of GOD. Thus, it is written: 1^st Corinthians 2: 7-14, King James Version (KJV): 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 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. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 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. 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. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “Michael” (Level 1 with 9 points, a member since August 04, 2015) posted the following:

 

Was Jesus ever described as handsome/beautiful or just extremely charismatic?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. (1^st Corinthians 12: 3, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: On Seeing The Father (12/04/2018); GOD Has Come Down (10/09/2018); These Three Are One (10/03/2018); Applying The Divine Standards (10/02/2018); Mysteries Of The Kingdom? (09/28/2018); Appearing Above In Flesh? (09/16/2018); The Relationship As Servant (06/03/2018); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); GOD Known By Action Not Form? (03/18/2015)

 

“Michael”, many Christian believers agree that the physical appearance of Jesus Christ can not be correctly described because greater focus must be upon his revelation and appearing from the Godhead (we also say, divinity; the divine fullness; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). While many painters and artists have depicted Jesus with a glow, a halo, or a nimbus above his head, the holy writings describe Jesus as being average, nondescript, and not standing out in a crowd. Jesus displayed authentic humanity through his birth, gradual growth, preaching ministry, and death. Such traits as his eye and hair color, his nose, brow, other facial features and elements of human form were intended so that he might blend in with those to whom he was sent. That one of his apostles, who had lived with him on a daily basis for the three and one half year of his ministry on the earth, would be recruited to betray him by approaching and kissing Jesus during the darkness before daylight is a further aspect of the mysteries of divine Incarnation.

Developing Christians are encouraged to practice discernment wherein their own spirit content imparted from the makeup of GOD is used as the standard to examine, recognize, and respond to the spirit substance within events, lessons, other persons, prophecy, etc. Jesus Christ is to be seen, today, in the Christ-likeness and eternal purpose that appears among his born-again disciples, followers and joint-heirs who now also exist as the offspring of GOD and vessels of divine substance. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Isaiah 52: 7-10, King James Version (KJV): 7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! 8 Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the LORD shall bring again Zion. 9 Break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the LORD hath comforted his people, he hath redeemed Jerusalem. 10 The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.

2. Isaiah 53: 2-5, KJV: 2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. 3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. 5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

3. Luke 24: 13-21, KJV: 13 And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. 14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. 16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. 17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? 18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? 19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: 20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. 21 But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. John 20: 19-29, KJV: 19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. 21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(01/24/2019) Christians Are Following Jesus

 

Today, reply is on whether those who follow Jesus Christ also are commanded within the Bible to worship him as God. In addition to divine law that is the expressed will of GOD, the followers of Jesus will carry out, conform to, embody and obey divine principles, proclamations, and prophecy; sacred doctrine; the imperatives of faith; and promptings by the imparted, indwelling Spirit. Christ is exalted and shown reverence throughout the Scriptures using various descriptive names and titles (e.g., seed of the woman; Immanuel; Messiah; the son of man; Alpha and Omega). While the full revelation of GOD does center specifically in the incarnation of divine substance as Jesus Christ, the eternal purpose of his ministry on the earth is not to be thought of as self-promotion. Created beings and living creatures are to be aware of, discover, and even experience the divinity of Jesus from the time of his conception and being announced by an angel to the woman through whom he was born to the time of his appearing for the harvest (the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming). A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Faez” (Level 1 with 101 points, a member since September 10, 2018) posted the following:

 

Jesus said not to worship Him, in Revelation 22:9, Mark 7:7, Mathew 15:9. Then why are Christians not following Jesus?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth? Seeing thou hatest instruction, and casteth my words behind thee. When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother’s son. These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God. (Psalms 50: 16-23, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: We Have To Believe? (01/06/2019); Divinity Embodied In Flesh (12/30/2018); By Reading The Bible? (11/18/2018); New Commandments From Christ? (06/05/2018); Avoiding Confusion About Antichrist (11/08/2017); Without the Divine Image? (10/15/2017); Tools For Knowing Divinity (05/12/2017); Martyrdom and Tribulation? (09/30/2015)

 

Faez, what it means “to follow Jesus” goes beyond literal obedience to his spoken commands that are recorded in the Bible. His disciples are to appear as incarnations and members of his body; they are to display the image of GOD, and continually manifest Christ-likeness. Those who are mature members of the church that Jesus Christ has created will fulfill sacred duties and divine possibilities provided through a new relationship wherein created beings and living creatures are to permanently exist as companions to divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Sinners are to receive rebirth and exist as the new creation by containing fresh endowments of life essence (we say, breath; spirit; word) imparted from the character, makeup and nature of GOD. Included are faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, sacred knowledge, wisdom, and wrath against sin. In the same way no one has to beg for what those who love them willingly want to offer and share, divinity does not have to command, demand, and require praise, reverence or worship from those who willingly follow and serve. Such things appear as expressions of gratitude, joy, respect, and reverence. Consider again the following that uses language from the holy writings:

1. John 7: 16-18, King James Version (KJV): 16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. 17 If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. 18 He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

2. 2^nd John 6-7, KJV: 6 And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. 7 For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

3. 2^nd John 9-11, KJV: 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

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

(07/13/2018) The Discernment of Godliness

 

Today, topics include the appearing of Jesus Christ on the earth to continue ongoing judgment, the discernment of godliness within his disciples by Jesus Christ, the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, and final judgment as an acknowledgment of Christlikeness and the divine image.  Jesus, operating in his authentic humanity, had to use the deposit of spirit content from the makeup of divinity that resided within himself as a standard to recognize and respond when the same imparted, indwelling spirit substance was present within events, other persons, prophecy, the holy writings, etc.  One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data appears) posted the following:

 

Is John 6:70 literal?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing:  the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.  But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.  And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.  From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.  Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?  Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.  And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.  Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?  He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon:  for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve.  (John 6:  63-71, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Discernment And Godly Love (06/26/2018); When Speaking Of Christlikeness (06/25/2018); Judas Kept The Bag (03/22/2018); Duties of a Christian? (03/13/2018); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); Eating and Drinking Christ? (07/03/2017); Become Like Jesus Christ? (10/27/2016); To Drink Holy Blood? (02/16/2015)

 

“Anonymous”, spiritual things must be compared to spiritual things.  To say, ones spirit content and makeup are shown through their deeds, and to say, “Judas Iscariot was a devil” are as “literal” as saying, “all have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD.”  Among mature Christian believers, the words of Jesus Christ [John 6:  30, King James Version (KJV):  70 Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?] were spoken to further reveal the operations of divinity appearing in human form (we say, Incarnation); certify the godly benefit of communion and joining through a memorial of the Lord’s Supper; instruct his disciples about his approaching death on the cross; and demonstrate the sacred gift of prophetic discernment, rather than to merely accuse or expose the hypocrites and false followers within his inner circle.  We often miss the truth that Jesus came into the world continuing the eternal purpose and work of divine judgment.  In that instance, Jesus was speaking in particular of the Apostle Judas, who would soon betray the Savior in the darkness of night by using the intimate greeting of a friend (i.e., an embrace and a kiss) to expose the Lord for capture.  Judas was not identified as being Satan (the Adversary; many say, the Devil, the slanderer) himself.  Judas was being described as a fruit, and an offspring of the Devil; and someone at enmity against GOD.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Malachi 3:  16-18, King James Version (KJV):  16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another:  and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.  17 And they shall be mine, smith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.  18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

(2.)  Ephesians 5:  5-7, KJV:  5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.  6 Let no man deceive you with vain words:  for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.  7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them.

(3.)  Matthew 13:  36-43, KJV:  36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house:  and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.  37 He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;  38 The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;  39 The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.  40 As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.  41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;  42 And shall cast them into a furnace of fire:  there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.  43 Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.

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

(06/14/2018) The Divinity Of Christ?

 

Today, reply is on whether the Great Commission appearing in the Gospel of Matthew teaches that GOD is a trinity.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

How does Matthew 28:18 teach that God is a trinity?
Jesus tells his disciples to baptize people in the name of his God, the Father and of himself and the holy spirit. Where does Jesus say that he is a part of his God and that all three make up the one God?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  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.  (1st John 3:  2, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Christianity Is A Relationship (04/05/2018); Jesus Called “Almighty GOD?” (12/21/2017); Jesus Demonstrated Perfected Humanity (10/29/2017); All Who Express Divinity (06/21/2016); The GOD Part of Jesus? (05/06/2015); Aspects of Divinity? (06/15/2014); Son of Adam and of GOD? (06/16/2014); Focus of Believers? (06/17/2014)
 

“Anonymous”, because we understand personhood as an attribute of divinity, as Christian believers, our ways of speaking and thinking about GOD include such elements as communication, Incarnation, interaction, names, praise, prayer, relationships, sacrifice, and titles.  Even so, our consciousness of Jesus Christ as an aspect of divine fullness (we say, Deity; the Godhead; the Trinity; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) does not result from a single statement in Scripture, a single sacred event (we say, miracle), or a single account (we say, gospel) of the life and ministry of Jesus on the earth.  The revelation of divine fullness through the holy writings must address aspects of sacred process and proclamation that occur before the frameworks of time and space, before the platforms of heaven and earth.  The holy writings, therefore, provide multiple streams of sacred truth (e.g., government chronicles, covenants, doctrine, divine law, promises, prophecy, visions), and require that sinners be apprehended by GOD (we say, born again; become incarnations of divinity) through fresh endowments of inseparable spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD that establish the possibility for created beings and living creatures to exist as Christ-like, a new creation, and the offspring of GOD.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Matthew 28:  16-20, King James Version (KJV):  16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.  17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him:  but some doubted.  18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.  19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:  20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:  and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

(2.)  John 17:  11, KJV:  11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

(3.)  John 17:  20-26, KJV:  20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;  21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us:  that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.  22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:  23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.  24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me:  for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.  25 O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee:  but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.  26 And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it:  that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

(4.)  Isaiah 63:  16, KJV:  16 Doubtless thou art our father, though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not:  thou, O LORD, art our father, our redeemer; thy name is from everlasting.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  John 14:   8-14, KJV:  8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.  9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?  10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself:  but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.  11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me:  or else believe me for the very works’ sake.  12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.  13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.  14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC