(11/22/2020) Explaining The Earlier Covenants

The images of Abraham (left) and Jesus Christ (right) are shown together acknowledging the connection among the diverse covenants through Abraham, Moses, and Jesus Christ.

Covenant practices and signs are in view, today, responding to a question on the frequent discussions of circumcision that appear from the Apostle Paul. The early church was required to demonstrate that they were anchored in the sacred knowledge displayed among the temple elders and the Rabbis. Paul began his apostolic ministry within the synagogues by appealing to believers among those who regularly attended. At first, belief in Christ was put forth as only a further expression of GOD’s covenant promises granted to the Jews. However, many of those who escaped from captivity and exile became grounded in tradition, and were determined to restore and preserve the covenant of Moses along with the Torah as what earlier had been provided as the highest blessings from GOD. Circumcision that had been bestowed on Abraham and his household as a mark of covenant relationship was not correctly acknowledged by the time of Moses, nor was circumcision uniformly practiced when divinity appeared on the earth using human form and life-process as Jesus Christ. Christ received circumcision as part of his inheritance and authentic humanity. Even so, circumcision was never intended by divinity as an outward mark of approval and consecration, or as a mark of disgrace and humiliation. Authentic sanctification (being set apart to serve divinity) appears by conformity to covenant law and sacred practices (e.g., observing the Sabbath; tithing; using the prayer shawl); and while circumcision is to be a visible declaration of commitment to relationship with divinity, a man will display his circumcision to fewer than 100 others during his entire lifetime (e.g., companions, doctors, family, etc.). It is written: Romans 4: 8-16, King James Version (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. 14 For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: 15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. 16 Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum on Religion & Spirituality who used the ID “ShalloWhale” (Level 6 with 18,373 points) posted the following:

Why is circumcision mentioned so much in the Bible?

Why was it so important that the Apostle Paul kept referring to it?

Updated 1 hour ago:

Is it a sloppy intrusion by male culture into a sacred text?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death. Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? and the prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself? Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God: Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham? Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. (John 8: 52-58, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Made Perfect By Divinity (11/10/2020); The Foreskin And Circumcision? (10/13/2020); Do We Follow Paul? (10/01/2020); Godliness Characterizes Authentic Humanity (02/06/2020); Heaven Speaks Using Mankind (09/15/2019); No Wall of Partition (07/05/2019); Scripture Has No Ethnicity (05/27/2019)

“Shallowhale”, your focus is on the flesh, not the Spirit. Just as Christian believers today are to share with skeptics and sinners who seek new lives that release them from the operations of sin, the Apostle Paul was repeatedly challenged to explain what appeared as hidden connections among the operations of divinity through Jesus Christ and the earlier proclamations, sacred promises, and prophecies from GOD. Circumcision was granted to Abraham as a visible sign of covenant relationship between immortal, incorruptible, unseen divinity and mankind. GOD was to be acknowledged as more than an abstract Creator and Maker; divinity was to exist in continuing relationship through spirit process and substance imparted from the makeup of GOD that included balance, commitment, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, mercy for those found guilty in judgment, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. The covenant of Moses that followed some 400 years later provided the divine presence through sacred law, identity as a sacred nation, and as a divine instrument to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of GOD. By focusing on the law as the foremost of all divine blessing, many mistakenly rejected and refused to receive and embody an indwelling spirit that would remove the obstacles continued by finite flesh (e.g., appetite; mind; sensation; self-will (willpower) ). Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) Jeremiah 31: 31-37, King James Version (KJV): 31 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: 32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD: 33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34 And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. 35 Thus saith the LORD, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; The LORD of hosts is his name: 36 If those ordinances depart from before me, saith the LORD, then the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before me for ever. 37 Thus saith the LORD; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith the LORD.

(2.) Galatians 3: 16-18, KJV: 16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ. 17 And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. 18 For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.

(3.) Galatians 3: 26-29, KJV: 26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 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. 29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) Hebrews 10: 28-29, KJV: 28 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: 29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 3:26 AM, November 22, 2020 @ https://oneway2day.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/abraham-jesus-sm.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(10/28/2020) The Spirits Are Subject

Today, a reply is made on whether men on the earth are to take pride in being children of GOD. To be an offspring of GOD, one must contain consecrated substance that has been imparted from the makeup of divine fullness (i.e., divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). For many, being set apart by their sacred content in order to serve divinity only means that you are blessed, favored, and gifted so that you excel and surpass others. However, rightly understood, sanctification is an aspect of the often difficult and painful transformation sinners must undergo from being offered as a living sacrifice to existing as immortal, incorruptible, perfected companions to GOD. It is written: Isaiah 11: 1-3, King James Version (KJV): 1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: 2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; 3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Broly” (Level 2 with 674 points) posted the following:

Is it against the Bible to take pride in being a child of God?

Bonus question: Can a person call themselves a “soldier of God”, I want to call myself that now instead of some dude from a DBZ movie.

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. (1^st John 3: 2, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Always Connected By Spirit (08/30/2020); The Sons Of GOD? (07/19/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); “GOD, I Thank Thee…” (03/16/2020); Acknowledging Christ as Son (03/08/2020); Christian Teachings About Devils (08/21/2019); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018)

“Broly”, because they have exaggerated pride many covet the authority, dominion, and power of divinity. While acknowledging and affirming that mankind is to bear the image of GOD, and should display substance and value established by the Creator, created beings and living creatures are to manifest the same humility that exists as an inseparable aspect of divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit). All who live are not accounted as the children of GOD, for the offspring of divinity must display the character, makeup, and nature of GOD (we say, divine DNA), and should resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and likeness of Jesus Christ. Within the new creation there has to be a fresh endowment of spirit imparted from the makeup of GOD. While living on the earth, men are to begin eternal life having balance, commitment, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin; while living in the earth made new, men are to receive immortality, incorruption, perfection, and righteousness. The inheritance and life-process for man that is received through the first pair (Adam) include conditions, limitations, and restrictions such as appetite, mortality, finite self-will (willpower), and an inclination to respond to the operations of sin. GOD is exalted as the origin and source for all that has existence and life; and sin is no thing created or put forth by divinity. Where the living will exist as companions to GOD they must undergo divine operations to continually express sacred law, divine prerogative, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Sinners must become “born again” through operations of the Creator, and those who become reborn must also grow-up again and become mature/ripe for harvest from the earth by the Lord at his coming. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible and Peace, a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) 2^nd Kings 1: 9-15, King James Version (KJV): 9 Then the king sent unto him a captain of fifty with his fifty. And he went up to him: and, behold, he sat on the top of an hill. And he spake unto him, Thou man of God, the king hath said, Come down. 10 And Elijah answered and said to the captain of fifty, If I be a man of God, then let fire come down from heaven, and consume thee and thy fifty. And there came down fire from heaven, and consumed him and his fifty. 11 Again also he sent unto him another captain of fifty with his fifty. And he answered and said unto him, O man of God, thus hath the king said, Come down quickly. 12 And Elijah answered and said unto them, If I be a man of God, let fire come down from heaven, and consume thee and thy fifty. And the fire of God came down from heaven, and consumed him and his fifty. 13 And he sent again a captain of the third fifty with his fifty. And the third captain of fifty went up, and came and fell on his knees before Elijah, and besought him, and said unto him, O man of God, I pray thee, let my life, and the life of these fifty thy servants, be precious in thy sight. 14 Behold, there came fire down from heaven, and burnt up the two captains of the former fifties with their fifties: therefore let my life now be precious in thy sight. 15 And the angel of the LORD said unto Elijah, Go down with him: be not afraid of him. And he arose, and went down with him unto the king.

(2.) Luke 9: 51-56, KJV: 51 And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, 52 And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. 53 And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. 54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? 55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. 56 For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.

(3.) Luke 10: 16-24, KJV: 16 He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me. 17 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. 18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. 19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. 20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. 21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. 22 All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. 23 And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: 24 For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3o4y8zHWYnw.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

Image downloaded 7:05 A, October 28, 2020 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/0d/43/97/0d439752c297715c43239bf7fa5418a8.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/27/2018) Deposits Of Sacred Substance

 

Today, reply is on the obligation of Christian believers to display divine spirit content from the makeup of GOD more than to perform acceptable behavior in obedience to godly law.  Sinners who are born again are to serve as vessels of divine law, the revelation of GOD through the holy writings, and the judgment of GOD to acknowledge and preserve the sacred substance deposited within created beings and living creatures.  The Scriptures offer more than instruction on law and obedience, good and evil, right and wrong.  The eternal purposes begun in the Creation of heaven and earth that are being fulfilled through Jesus Christ and his creation, the church, are described in detail.  The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

 

If we do not concern ourselves with good and evil, does that mean we don’t need to listen to any other commands in scripture?
As you grow up it doesn’t take an idiot to realise the basic things like do not steal, and that there is only one God, even if you don’t follow the abrahamic God it is not beneficial or logical to serve several masters. Soon you have to grow up and settle down. We already worked that out in the classical age, well mostly only the educated elites in the Greece-Roman world believed in the one ‘God’. As for the Ten commandments, that is more of a legal code and forgivable right from wrongs are not the same as good and evil, the Ten Commandments does not concern itself with outright evils, in the same way that you can’t expect a child to not develop paganistic tendencies. Why submit yourself to a miserable wretched life by continuing to read a book that makes demands you cannot reach, if only for the sake of knowing Good from evil? If you need words to communicate with God I’m sorry for you, but not all of us need to be told to not kill one another

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new.  And he said unto me, Write:  for these words are true and faithful.  And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.  But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone:  which is the second death.  (Revelation 21:  6-8, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Bible Language About Spirit? (06/13/2018); Condemned By The Bible? (06/08/2018); The Meaning of “Faith” (03/28/2018); Whoso Keepeth His Word (03/09/2018); What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); Standing On The ABCs? (11/09/2017); Deeds Of The Law? (09/10/2017)

 

“Anonymous”, we need to speak of some things difficult to apprehend; it is the duty of all Christian believers to display Christlikeness.  Many things that are written in the holy writings can not be applied and correctly understood without the support that comes by existing within a community of committed and mature adults who are capable of realizing the meanings and operations of divine substance (we say, breath; life essence; spirit; word).  Because we must begin with ideas concerning attitudes, behavior, self-control, and our usefulness to one another as living persons, most young people require many years of correction, discovery, gradual growth and learning to grasp that the primary focus for the affections and thoughts of Christian believers are to acknowledge the active presence who is the origin and source for existence and life as well as to recognize and respond to the multiple appearances of the otherwise invisible divine fullness (we say, the Godhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit).

In addition to a record of divine law provided to create a kingdom and nation on the earth that will continually manifest the presence of GOD (i.e., the Ten Commandments), the Scriptures impart sacred knowledge instead of secular knowledge revealing the character, makeup, and substance of the Creator by using thousands of events from thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years.  Along with the terms for divine dominion, ownership, and the sovereignty of GOD over all created beings and living creatures, the Scriptures document the terms for multiple covenant relationships, sacred proclamations, promises, and prophecies.  More than simply a book or narrative, the  Scriptures are to actually convey and impart inseparable aspects of spirit content that can be discerned and recognized as absent or present.  Included are faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

The demands of final judgment have more to do with examining ones spirit content, identifying the image of GOD, determining ones fitness, and completing a transformation whereby mankind becomes an immortal, incorruptible companion to divinity.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Exodus 20:  1-7, King James Version (KJV):  1 And God spake all these words, saying,  2 I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.  3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me.  4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.  5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them:  for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;  6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.  7 Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

(2.)  Exodus 19:  3-6, KJV:  3 And Moses went up unto God, and the LORD called unto him out of the mountain, saying, Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel;  4 Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself.  5 Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people:  for all the earth is mine:  6 And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.

(3.)  John 3:  1-12, KJV:  3 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:  2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God:  for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.  3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.  4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  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.  9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?  10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?  11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.  12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?

(4.)  1st Thessalonians 4:  13-18, KJV:  13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God:  and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:  and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

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

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/29/2018) Fear of the Unknown

 

Today, reply is on the excellence of Christian relationship with eternal divinity over the finite practices of temporal religion.  Through revelation and GOD appearing in human form (the Incarnation) men may no longer make a righteous claim that their fear of GOD is “fear of the unknown.”  As with all human relationships, closeness to GOD, communication with sacred personhood, and intimacy with the Creator require continual displays of acceptance, humility, respect, trust, and truth.  Even though the living had their beginning in GOD before the creation of Adam and Eve, each person must come to GOD willingly, at their own pace, and in accordance with their own unique spirit content.  The living do not start out having sacred perfection, and must be prepared to interact with Deity in regular ways.  Thus, the operations of GOD for mankind through Jesus Christ are to establish permanent relationships with the divine fullness through discovery, edification, gradual growth, incarnation, inheritance, joining, judgment, oneness without sameness, revelation, unselfish service, sharing, enduring suffering, and embracing the everlasting victory over death.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Darren” (Level 1 with 4 points, a member since November 17, 2016) posted the following:

 

Is religion based in fear?

Religion isnt had. Believe what you want, I have no right over you. I’m just wondering if religion was created out of fear of the unknown.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.  And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.  Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment:  because as he is, so are we in this world.  There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear:  because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.  We love him, because he first loved us.  If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar:  for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?  And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.  (1st John 4:  15-21, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Fear Of Divine Gifts? (03/04/2018); A Response For Survivors… (02/15/2018); We Begin Within GOD (02/06/2018); Accepting Christ, Accepting Change (10/20/2017); The Thought of Dying (08/15/2017); No Fear In Love? (05/17/2017); The Endtime and Fear? (01/14/2015); Why Believers Fear (09/09/2014); Freedom of Foul Speech? (09/10/2014)

 

“Darren”, Christians do not experience and practice “religion” so much as they acknowledge various possibilities for relationship with a living Deity who is the cause and origin for everything that exists, and who has imparted his own life essence (breath, spirit, Word) to all living.  Rather than speak of the Creator and Maker of the universe as an abstraction, an object in the natural world that may be manipulated, or an ordinary person who has extra ordinary ability and power, Christians respond to actions, proclamations, and promises provided from the beginnings of mankind to the present that are intended to make divinity knowable, known, accessible, and approachable.

GOD remains immortal and invisible, yet, has taught mankind how to recognize divinity as an active presence. Where divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) is revealed there are recognizable exchanges, operations, patterns, and purposes that appear repeatedly.  In addition to responses to mankind made through the mechanical, natural process for living on the earth (e.g., birth, reproduction, seasons, weather) along with the frameworks of time and space, GOD enters into covenants of promise, adoption, friendships, marriage, and other intimate relationships with the living who willingly commit themselves through communication (e.g., praise, prayer, preaching), obedience of divine law, and unselfish service.

For a lasting relationship with mortals (those who will eventually die) GOD must provide inseparable aspects of his own Spirit that make a man or woman more “compatible” with GOD.  Along with divine lovingkindness, those who are “born again” are supplied with forgiveness, faith, holiness, longsuffering, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Relationships with divinity are intended to reinforce and support mankind through the life process we create on the earth; and so there will continue to be life challenges, “growing pains,” and suffering.  Even so, faith and other aspects of divine spirit does not generate or allow emotions of anger, fear, and hatred to continue.  The process of GOD is one of revealing and sharing, where things unknown can be met with balance, holy boldness, discipline, joy, maturity, and trust.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Psalms 23:  1-6, King James Version (KJV):  1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.  2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:  he leadeth me beside the still waters.  3 He restoreth my soul:  he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.  4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:  for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.  5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:  thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.  6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:  and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

(2.)  Isaiah 43:  1-3, KJV:  1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not:  for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.  2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee:  when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.  3 For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour:  I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.

(3.)  Psalms 27:  1-6, KJV:  1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?  2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.  3 Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear:  though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.  4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.  5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion:  in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.  6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me:  therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Revelation 3:  20-21, KJV:  20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock:  if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.  21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/28/2018) The Meaning of “Faith”

 

Today, reply shares a Christian understanding of “faith” as an aspect of the confluence (meeting of streams; coming together) of sacred substance that exists as GOD.  In contrast to conjecture and speculation, faith pertains to a conclusive consciousness (we say, knowing) within the living of existing and possible operations, and process for divinity.  The followers of Jesus acknowledge faith as part of the life essence (breath; spirit; Word) and the fresh endowments through rebirth that may be imparted from the makeup of divinity to exist within created beings and living creatures.  The operations of sacred faith are to be seen through the acceptance of divine commission and duty; continual acknowledgment of revealed truth; commitment; endurance of “growing pains,” hardship, and suffering as well as maturity, patience, stability and willingness to await the return of Jesus to harvest the earth.  A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Ayebanengiyefa” (Level 1 with 73 points, a member February 26, 2016) posted the following:

 

What is faith?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him:  for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.  But without faith it is impossible to please him:  for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.  (Hebrews 11:  5-6, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); How Are We Justified? (03/05/2018); Meanings for “These Three”? (01/25/2018); Praying For “More Faith”? (01/12/2018); Certainty, Conviction and Faith (01/05/2018); Relying on Sacred “Evidence” (11/20/2017); The Makeup of GOD (09/25/2017)

 

“Ayebanengiyefa”, in my understanding as a Christian believer “faith” has been revealed (shown by GOD) to be a spirit substance that exists as a recognizable dimension of his own divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit).  Faith is inseparable from all the other aspects of divinity that exist as the makeup of GOD, thus, wherever you find faith there will be other spirit matter such as holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness,  personhood, presence, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Faith (and the other invisible things of GOD) are to be known as active and present on the basis of their effects and influence upon the things that are seen, touchable, and visible.  Included are social exchanges and relationships.  Because faith is not a carnal, material and physical object, many confuse faith with emotion(s) and feelings, or thoughts and mental process (e.g., belief, convictions, desire, imagination).

GOD is the origin of all sacred faith.  Sacred faith operates and is applied in accordance with covenant, divine law, judgment, sacred knowledge in place of secular knowledge, godly principle, eternal purpose, and consecrated utterance (the word of GOD appearing as praise, proclamation, promise, and prophecy).  Consider again the following points to reveal GOD that use language from the Bible:

(1.)  Habakkuk 2:  1-4, King James Version (KJV):  1 I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved.  2 And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.  3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie:  though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.  4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him:  but the just shall live by his faith.

(2.)  Matthew 9:  20-22, KJV:  20 And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:  21 For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole.  22 But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.

(3.)  Matthew 9:  27-31, KJV:  27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, have mercy on us.  28 And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him:  and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord.  29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.  30 And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it.  31 But they, when they were departed, spread abroad his fame in all that country.

(4.)  Romans 5:  1-5, KJV:  1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:  2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also:  knowing that tribulation worketh patience;  4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:  5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.) Romans 9:  30-33, KJV:  30 What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.  31 But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.  32 Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;  33 As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence:  and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(03/28/2018) The Meaning of “Faith”

 

Today, reply shares a Christian understanding of “faith” as an aspect of the confluence (meeting of streams; coming together) of sacred substance that exists as GOD.  In contrast to conjecture and speculation, faith pertains to a conclusive consciousness (we say, knowing) within the living of existing and possible operations, and process for divinity.  The followers of Jesus acknowledge faith as part of the life essence (breath; spirit; Word) and the fresh endowments through rebirth that may be imparted from the makeup of divinity to exist within created beings and living creatures.  The operations of sacred faith are to be seen through the acceptance of divine commission and duty; continual acknowledgment of revealed truth; commitment; endurance of “growing pains,” hardship, and suffering as well as maturity, patience, stability and willingness to await the return of Jesus to harvest the earth.  A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Ayebanengiyefa” (Level 1 with 73 points, a member February 26, 2016) posted the following:

 

What is faith?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him:  for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.  But without faith it is impossible to please him:  for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.  (Hebrews 11:  5-6, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  What Is A Spirit? (03/06/2018); How Are We Justified? (03/05/2018); Meanings for “These Three”? (01/25/2018); Praying For “More Faith”? (01/12/2018); Certainty, Conviction and Faith (01/05/2018); Relying on Sacred “Evidence” (11/20/2017); The Makeup of GOD (09/25/2017)

 

“Ayebanengiyefa”, in my understanding as a Christian believer “faith” has been revealed (shown by GOD) to be a spirit substance that exists as a recognizable dimension of his own divine fullness (we say, the GODhead; the Trinity; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit).  Faith is inseparable from all the other aspects of divinity that exist as the makeup of GOD, thus, wherever you find faith there will be other spirit matter such as holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness,  personhood, presence, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

Faith (and the other invisible things of GOD) are to be known as active and present on the basis of their effects and influence upon the things that are seen, touchable, and visible.  Included are social exchanges and relationships.  Because faith is not a carnal, material and physical object, many confuse faith with emotion(s) and feelings, or thoughts and mental process (e.g., belief, convictions, desire, imagination).

GOD is the origin of all sacred faith.  Sacred faith operates and is applied in accordance with covenant, divine law, judgment, sacred knowledge in place of secular knowledge, godly principle, eternal purpose, and consecrated utterance (the word of GOD appearing as praise, proclamation, promise, and prophecy).  Consider again the following points to reveal GOD that use language from the Bible:

(1.)  Habakkuk 2:  1-4, King James Version (KJV):  1 I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved.  2 And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.  3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie:  though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.  4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him:  but the just shall live by his faith.

(2.)  Matthew 9:  20-22, KJV:  20 And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:  21 For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole.  22 But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.

(3.)  Matthew 9:  27-31, KJV:  27 And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, have mercy on us.  28 And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him:  and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, Yea, Lord.  29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.  30 And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it.  31 But they, when they were departed, spread abroad his fame in all that country.

(4.)  Romans 5:  1-5, KJV:  1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:  2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.  3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also:  knowing that tribulation worketh patience;  4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:  5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.) Romans 9:  30-33, KJV:  30 What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.  31 But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.  32 Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;  33 As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence:  and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(03/06/2018) What Is A Spirit?

A depiction of the fullness of divinity revealed through Jesus Christ

 

Today, focus is on defining “spirit” as an aspect of human and divine makeup.  Divine spirit is spoken of as authority, dominion, and power.  Many of the devices used to depict spirit (e.g., clouds, flame, fog, mist, smoke), in fact, are material substances made of fine particles.  All spirit is made up only of spirit; and the origin and source of all divine spirit is exclusively GOD.  Faith is made up only of faith; holiness consists only of holiness; righteousness contains only righteousness, and so on.  While emotions, mind, sensations, and thoughts also are immaterial and intangible, they are more the product and response of flesh to its outside setting and surroundings than a presentation of the exchanges and interactions among the elements in place as ones inner makeup.  Divine spirit substance can become defiled and profaned; and may be destroyed using the same holy fire that separates the acceptable portion of offerings and sacrifices transmitted to GOD from the matter that must be eliminated and removed.  The holy writings describe angels as spirit messengers and living creatures who are neither mortal nor immortal, and who exist and serve at the discretion of GOD.  Angels  have appeared to mankind using the likeness of men as well as forms that are strange and frightening (e.g., having four faces; moving by wheels; having multiple pairs of wings).  In addition to those accounted as holy and consecrated, there are others accounted as devils, “fallen” through the operations of sin, rebellious, and “unclean”.  The Lake of Fire that will be used to complete annihilation (the second death) and the judgments against sin has been prepared for the devil, his angels, and those who chose to be his followers.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum who uses the ID “Nightwolf” (Level 7 with 26,791 points, a member since December 08, 2015) posted the following:

 

What exactly is a spirit?

Is it like a energy being?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.  Hereby know ye the Spirit of God:  Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:  And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.  Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them:  because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.  They are of the world:  therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.  We are of God:  he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.  (1st John 4:  1-6, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Flesh As Divine Vessels? (01/14/2018); Having Personhood Without Gender? (12/13/2017); An Incarnation of Divinity? (10/12/2017); Lower Than The Angels? (09/12/2017); The Servitude of Angels (08/28/2017); Divine Presence and Spirit (01/18/2017); Destruction of the Adversary? (01/06/2017); Discernment and Common Sense (05/17/2016)

 

“Nightwolf”, here is a way we may speak together of these things:

Among Christian believers, spirit is not an ordinary object or thing having fixed and measurable features.  Being and personhood are specific appearances, material forms, and tools used to make what is unseen known; and both are used to describe qualities and traits of living creatures that have been fashioned by GOD, and given existence and life separate from the Creator.  By contrast, divinity is understood as a cause, the origin of all things, an active presence, and the eternal purpose for all existing without dimension (i.e., measurable form, or limits), and is the aggregate or sum of all sacred spirit substance.  Thus, Christians speak of Deity as an appearance of divine fullness (we also say, the GODhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit), who is immortal, incorruptible, and invisible. 

Mankind was formed using material from the earth, and had physical existence before receiving awareness, life, and self-will.   Life essence (we say, breath; spirit; Word) from the makeup of GOD was imparted to a insensible figure; and man became a “living soul.”  Where we are told, mankind is made in the image of GOD, we take it to mean, the spirit content of men, rather than the facade and outer shell, is like that of GOD.  Divinity has used many embodiments and forms to become knowable, known, accessible and approachable to the living (e.g., fire, ice, judges, kings, nations, patriarchs, priests, prophets, water, winds).  Christians trust that—after using thousands of events, and thousands of lives, over the course of thousands of years to prepare mankind for the sacred events of his birth, life, death, and resurrection—GOD also appeared in flesh and human form as Jesus Christ (we say, Incarnation). 

All spirit material is not divine in its authority, character, makeup, and response to godly truth.  Thus we speak of the “anti-christ spirit.”  Sin is no thing created by GOD, and is not a spirit, yet, sin may dominate awareness and self-will in the living; and the operations of sin show direction, effect, and presence.  Thus, Christians are cautioned to use discernment (i.e., apply their own imparted spirit from the makeup of GOD as a standard to recognize and respond to spirit substance from GOD within other persons, events, messages, motives, teachings, etc.)  Sinners may receive a fresh endowment of spirit content from GOD by becoming “born again.”  Their inborn spirit must die, be buried, and be raised from the dead, so to speak; and they are to become vessels of divine seed/DNA.  Imparted from GOD are inseparable aspects of the divine nature such as faith, forbearance, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, restraint, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Isaiah 11:  1-5, King James Version (KJV):  1 And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:  2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;  3 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD:  and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:  4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth:  and he shall smite the earth:  with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.  5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.

(2.)  John 3:  4-6, KJV:  4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

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

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Romans 8:  3-9, KJV:  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.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(02/01/2018) Standards For Godly Behavior

The photo is shared to depict the man who stands on godly principle and refuses to conform to dictates of the world.

 

Today, reply is on the imparted Spirit from GOD as the mechanism that generates and sets the standards for godly behavior among Christian believers.  Where we think of ones inner standards as aspects of their physical makeup, it makes sense to say that behavior emerges primarily from the elements of appetite, emotion, mind, and the stimulation of ones sense receptors.  However, neither the mechanics and operations of the flesh, nor the pressure from peers and the surrounding social environment completely account for behavior that expresses godly principles, eternal purposes, and the sacred revelation of divinity using mankind.  Only by operations of the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth) do aspects of divine fullness appear among the living such as holy boldness, commitment, faith, longsuffering, sacred personhood, repentance, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “maulporphy” (Level 5 with 8,608 points, a member since March 24, 2016) posted the following:
 

Is your behavior influenced by religious standards, or simple human decency?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.  (Psalms 119:  9, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  There Must Be Rebirth (01/21/2018); Law of the Spirit (12/27/2017); Without the Divine Image? (10/15/2017); Conforming to Divine Standards (06/18/2017); Made in the Image of GOD? (10/09/2014); All Who Read Convert? (10/10/2014); His Burden is Light? (12/10/2012); Knowing Who Your Real Friends Are (12/11/2012)

 

“maulporphy”, Christian believers endorse the words of Jesus Christ, You must be born again.  The inborn spirit within created beings and living creatures is now predisposed to respond to the operations of sin that are contrary to their own makeup, that foster self-destruction, and that promote nonexistence.  The living must receive a fresh endowment of spirit substance from the makeup of GOD.  Sinners who become born again experience death, burial, and rebirth of the inheritance from their parents that was conveyed to them  from the first pair (Adam).  The character and nature of ones life essence (we also say, breath, spirit, Word) is to establish as continuous the active presence who is recognized as the Creator.

Because the standards and values that proceed by the flesh center on appetite, sensations, emotions, and feelings that are constantly changing, yet, last only for a brief period (we say, are temporal), human experience and the quality of life often appear to lack continuity and stability; may seem cyclic, mechanical, pointless, and repetitive; and are dismissed by many as being no more than a series of disconnected episodes.  Relying on finite human standards and tools such as intellect, logic, secular knowledge, philosophy, politics, or science has not been able to eliminate sin from their lives either; and we find there are many who hold doctoral degrees, and are called “scientist” that are no less sinners despite their academic and social achievements—we say, they are “educated fools.”

Godliness is the fruit (product) of divine spirit.  Those who are born-again receive inseparable spirit content from GOD (e.g., faith, holiness, joy, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, wrath against sin).  Even so, they must “grow up again” and mature while facing “growing pains” and life challenges on the earth that also include bereavement, disappointment, and suffering.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Proverbs 14:  12, King James Version (KJV):  12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

(2.)  Jeremiah 17:  9-10, KJV:  9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked:  who can know it?  10 I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.

(3.)  1st John 2:  15-16, KJV:  15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.  17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof:  but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, this word of prophecy, (4.)  Isaiah 28:  10-20, KJV:  10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:  11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.  12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing:  yet they would not hear.  13 But the word of the Lord was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.  14 Wherefore hear the word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem.  15 Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us:  for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves:  16 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation:  he that believeth shall not make haste.  17 Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet:  and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place.  18 And your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your agreement with hell shall not stand; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down by it.  19 From the time that it goeth forth it shall take you:  for morning by morning shall it pass over, by day and by night:  and it shall be a vexation only to understand the report.  20 For the bed is shorter than that a man can stretch himself on it:  and the covering narrower than that he can wrap himself in it.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

 THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/09/2017) Standing On The ABCs?

 

Today, reply is shared with a believer who wants to stand on faith without having to respond to preachers and holy writings.  GOD in the heart and in the understanding should appear as unselfish service within the church and the larger community.  A sinner may come under conviction following experiences of consolation during bereavement, deliverance or healing, yet, their “faith” may be characterized as “dead”, because it does not bear divine fruit seen with such “works” as church attendance, being baptized, mentoring as “godparents”, regular prayer, and repentance.  While any number of simple encounters may begin ones new life with Jesus Christ, the salvation of GOD through the Son is not “loaded with options,” or offered like buffet items that one may pick, choose and fit together in accordance with their own appetite, desires and lusts.  For Christians, faith is never “blind”, “undefined”, or according to an individual’s private opinion.  The meaning, process and substance of faith are defined by GOD in keeping with sacred law, divine order and godly practices (we say, sacraments).  Thus, for developing believers, there are specific eternal points of sacred knowledge to be received along with predetermined gifts and operations of the Holy Spirit as well as a broad range of challenges, sacred expectations, permanent changes, and even sufferings that identify the children of GOD upon the earth.  A fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” with the user ID “jay” (Level 1 with 90 points, a member since November 08, 2017) posted the following:

 

Ok I have god in my heart not from any book not from any preacher but from an event that happened. So my question is what’s wrong with that?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works:  shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.  Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well:  the devils also believe, and tremble.  But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?  (James 2:  18-20, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  GOD Is Imparting Truth (10/30/2017); Undergoing A Sacred Transformation (10/24/2017); Actual Utterance From GOD? (08/11/2017); Separate Yet Not Alone (06/28/2017); The Cross and Creation (03/24/2016); About Deluding Yourself? (09/22/2014); Family and Beliefs of Children? (08/29/2014); Stories Repeated in the Bible? (08/30/2014)

 

“jay”, in the same way young ones learn to recite the ABCs, yet, still are unable to read and write without further instruction and practice, converts and sinners who have an experience that turn them to GOD also need further nourishment and structure.  Believing in Jesus Christ may begin as an independent and personal commitment that, on surface, does not involve anyone else.  It is their individual choice and decision; and how, when, and where they display or express their belief is up to themselves, and no one else.  However, “exclusive devotion” that shuts others out is not according to the plan of GOD for mankind’s redemption and salvation through the Lord.

Just as infants are dependent and must be born into families who will nourish, protect, and support them until they become capable of maintaining themselves, sinners who become “born again” believers are to be embraced within the family of GOD.  Along with other developing believers, those who will be known as disciples of Christ are to be provided with such blessings as comfort from GOD through fellow-believers; “sacred” instead of secular knowledge; correction, explanations, and guidance in agreement with godly standards; opportunities for unselfish service to GOD as well as experiences of shared praise, study, and worship.

In the same way  young love is distinguished from teen-aged infatuation by accountability, commitment, and restraint, mature members within the body of Christ (the church) and those who are true saints within the kingdom of GOD will be distinguished by the display of their own divine spirit content (the image of GOD).  Included will be faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, meekness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  It is only out of love and because of their correct understanding that believers fully embrace “organized religion.”  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  2nd Timothy 3:  14-17, King James Version (KJV):  14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;  15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.  16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

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

(3.)  1st Corinthians 12:  12-18, KJV:  12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body:  so also is Christ.  13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.  14 For the body is not one member, but many.  15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?  16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?  17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?  18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and made a part of our own spirit makeup.  (For example, (4.)  Ecclesiastes 12:  10-14, KJV:  10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words:  and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.  11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.  12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished:  of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.  13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:  Fear God, and keep his commandments:  for this is the whole duty of man.  14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(11/03/2017) Having Consciousness of Death

 

 
Today, topics include death, sacred promises, and the new life for developing Christians.  In the same way suffering provides a platform for hope, death provides a platform for faith.  Eternal life is GOD’s intent, yet, death is GOD’s tool.  Using death GOD adds multiple facets of meaning and substance to the awareness generated by divine law, and operates on the deeper levels of consciousness within created beings and living creatures.  Included are appetite (e.g., hunger, thirst, sexual cravings), sensation (e.g., hearing, seeing, tasting, touching), emotions (e.g., anger, fear, sorrow), the dynamics of fellowship (e.g., integrity, respect, trust), mental functions (e.g., dreams, expectations, imagination, logic, carnal reason, recall) as well as the oneness without sameness that make possible continuing relationships with divinity.  Through influence and imperative, death promotes commitment, repentance and urgency along with permanent changes that come by acquiring sacred knowledge, study of the holy writings, and unselfish service.  One of the fighters at “Yahoo! Answers” who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shared) posted the following:

 

If we are all going to die one day than what is the ******* point of life?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.  For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.  But every man in his own order:  Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.  Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.  For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.  The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.  (1st Corinthians 15:  21-26, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Reasons for Our Existence? (11/01/2017); Undergoing A Sacred Transformation (10/24/2017); Caution! Work In Progress (10/19/2017); From Dust Thou Art (09/07/2017); Existence, Mortality and GOD? (08/31/2017); Waiting On The Lord? (06/16/2017); The Nature of Death (04/25/2017)

 

“Anonymous”, having to meet life challenges, endure growing pains, suffer, and complete mortality does not destroy all the beauty, discovery, and joy of living.  While they are still living on the earth, those who commit themselves to Jesus Christ for atonement and forgiveness of sin also are endowed with new meanings, practices, divine promises, and ways of understanding that help them to comprehend creation, existence, life, and death are all tools for divine self-expression.  The fullness of divinity (we say, “the GODhead;” “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit”) must become knowable, known, accessible and approachable to created beings and living creatures.  In addition to inseparable aspects of sacred makeup such as faith, holiness, longsuffering, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin, the active presence whom we call “GOD” also emanates glory, hope, love, perfection, person, eternal purpose and resurrection from the dead. 

The Creator is a deity who also has appeared on the earth using covenant agreements, divine law, form (we say, flesh and blood; Incarnation), promises, and holy writings.  GOD continues communication, exchange, and interaction (we say, ongoing personal relationships), to provide added benefit and comfort to mankind, and so that, divinity can be realized as more than an abstraction, or academic concept.  For Christian believers, the “quality of life” on the earth is enhanced through clear statements from GOD that set believers apart for service (we say, command, instruct, sanctify) and further prepare them to exist as immortal, incorruptible companions of divinity.

Christians are not granted ability to read other people’s thoughts, or predict the future; instead, they are made certain and sure through divine promises and prophecy.  In water baptism the believer undergoes death, burial and rebirth having divine DNA, so to speak; and all who are “born again,” must “grow up again” as the sons and daughters of GOD, who display divine spirit content through their lifestyle and daily routines.  Developing believers are to become mature (we say, ripe for harvest) to be removed from the earth at the appearing of Jesus Christ (Advent, the Rapture, the Second Coming).  For us, then, there always is  great excitement, for the Scriptures declare we will not all be in our graves at his coming.  Neither men nor angels can say the day or hour when he shall return; and all are encouraged to stay ready, and remain vigilant.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.) 2nd Corinthians 1:  8-10, King James Version (KJV):  8 For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life:  9 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead:  10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver:  in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;

(2.)  Romans 6:  3-5, KJV:  3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?  4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death:  that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.  5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

(3.)  Revelation 21:  6-8, KJV:  6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.  7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.  8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone:  which is the second death.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and made a part of our own spirit makeup.  (For example, (4.)  1st Thessalonians 4:  13-18, KJV:  13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God:  and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air:  and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

 
THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC