(12/07/2018) The Increase of Christ?

 

Today, reply is on the accomplishments of John the Baptist appearing as the herald and servant to Christ being surpassed by those of Jesus appearing as Christ, Savior, and Son of the Highest. The birth of both Jesus and John were sacred events (we say, miracles) in fulfillment of prophecy, and both served in the permanent change of divine ministry to mankind and to the earth. Both would be living models of authentic humanity. John would signal an end for the work of Levitical priesthood; and Jesus would become throughly fitted and prepared to serve as a divine High Priest. John advanced the transformation of mankind to exist on the earth as a companion to divinity through forgiveness, rebirth, and repentance. Jesus advanced the transformation of mankind to exist on the earth as an immortal, incorruptible companion to divinity through atonement, resurrection, and final judgment. John would be privileged to see and hear Jesus acknowledged by the Father and the Holy Spirit. However, while imprisoned by Herod, John would become uncertain, and his faith be in crisis. John did receive the report from his disciples on the works of Jesus, yet, he died in prison executed like a thief or a murderer. John would not be resurrected as was Lazarus. Only relying on faith would John ever see Jesus ministering miracles among the people, and not with his own two eyes. When the transformation of mankind is completed at the coming of Jesus to harvest the earth, even the least in the kingdom of heaven will exist having unshakable faith. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

What did Jesus Christ mean by he must increase, but I must decrease?

John 3:30

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, And said unto him, Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another? Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John again those things which ye do hear and see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me. And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. (Matthew 11: 2-11, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: John Anointed To Prophesy (05/21/2018); The Lamb of GOD (08/19/2015); Jesus Given A Divine Ministry? (08/18/2015); Jesus and the Pharisees (07/14/2013); How Could Angels Fall? (07/15/2013); He Must Increase? (04/01/2015); Both Born Holy? (04/29/2013); Scripture at Funerals? (04/30/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, here are some points developing Christian believers are being challenged to consider; the ministry of John exhorting repentance and proclaiming the soon coming of the kingdom of GOD would become overshadowed by Jesus Christ being visible as the active presence, and providing as the new creation his church grounded in spirit and truth, not ceremony, rites, and rituals:

1. Following more than 400 years without the office of prophet from GOD appearing in Israel, John the Baptist would arrive as a herald announcing and proclaiming the advent (coming) of the Christ. As the son of Zacharias, John would be reared to serve in sacred office as a priest—one anointed to offer sacrifices of blood on a consecrated altar that serves as the point of contact between earth and heaven. Prompted by the Holy Spirit, John would leave the Temple in Jerusalem to serve in the wilderness as a prophet after the example of Moses—one who ministers as a spokesperson from divinity to mankind, and from mankind to divinity.

2. The appointment of John began through the prophetic demonstration of miraculous birth to elderly parents. While still developing within his mother’s womb, John became filled with the Holy Spirit when his mother was visited by her cousin Mary, who later would give birth to Jesus. Zacharias, was a Levite whose sacred inheritance included ministry and worship within the Temple at Jerusalem, and performing in scheduled courses (we say, organized rotations; shifts). Elizabeth also was from a priestly family, however, she had been barren (could not bear children), and was thought too old for childbearing.

3. The priesthood that was begun as a gift from heaven given to Adam, and would be increased through the covenant of Moses, existed as an instrument used by GOD to continue the making of atonement, fulfilling eternal purpose, maintaining covenant relationship, and proclaiming divine law expressing the sovereign will of divinity.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Both the office of priest and that of prophet would be transformed by the embodiment of divinity as Jesus Christ (we say, the Incarnation). Contrary to “the law and the prophets,” custom, practice, and tradition had narrowed focus within the Temple community to obedience, offerings, and sacrifice—the law without the prophets. A more complete and correct revelation of divine fullness would be provided displaying operations by the Holy Spirit (we also say, the Comforter; the Holy Ghost; the Spirit of Prophecy; the Spirit of Truth). ) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(11/29/2018) Built Upon The Spirit

 

Today, reply is on the sacred operations, divine substance, and immutable truths—the rock—that serve as foundation for the new creation by Jesus Christ that is a living community to contain and display ongoing relationship with divinity through his imparted Spirit. In the same way the Creator gave form to mankind by fashioning Adam from the dust of the earth, the Holy Spirit is fashioning the components, members and process that appear as the church of Jesus Christ. By grace through faith, the testimony granted sinners who apprehend testament in the blood of Jesus is that activity of mind (e.g., dreaming, imagining, recall, thinking); senses of the flesh (e.g., hearing, seeing, smelling, tasting, touching), and apostles such as Peter, James, John and Thomas “hath not revealed it unto me”. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality, who uses the ID “GRANNY NORINE” (Level 1 with no points showing, a member since May 16, 2014) posted the following:

 

Is Peter the rock on which Jesus’ Church is built upon (Matthew 16:17-18)?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: 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; 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: 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. And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins. (Isaiah 11: 1-5, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: The Mystery of GODhead (10/21/2018); The Church Of Jesus (06/18/2018); Christ Rejected By Pharisees? (06/17/2018); In Order To Understand (12/01/2017); Built Upon the Rock (12/23/2016); Christ The Solid Rock? (08/07/2016); Sadducees and The Cross? (03/13/2016); A Spirit Church? (04/04/2013); My Brother’s Keeper (04/05/2013)

 

“GRANNY NORINE”, the Spirit within me identifies Jesus and the Holy Spirit as the Rock. The Incarnation of divinity using flesh as Jesus Christ did not introduce a platform for covenant relationship with divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) that was new, so much as a platform to replace and advance things that had become obscured by custom, legalism, and tradition throughout Israel, and among the Jews of the Temple community. Where Moses left a legacy of the “law and the prophets,” practice by the Pharisees and Sadducees emphasized the observance of feasts, offerings and sacrifices, and centered upon the law without the prophets. While none denied the active presence of GOD (we say, the Shekinah) within the Sanctuary, and the High Priest continued to enter the Most Holy place on the annual day of atonement, there was no unanimous acceptance that the operations of GOD, the promises of GOD, and the record established through the prophets should be uppermost in acknowledgment, praise, and worship. Jesus would minister in Jerusalem as a divine High Priest after the order of Melchizedek, yet, would be recognized and responded to only by those responding to operations from the same Holy Spirit that resided within the sacred spokesperson commanded to leave the temple priesthood, John the Baptist. How readest thou? The following is the pivotal statement that declares the character, process, and substance of the new creation church: Matthew 16: 17, King James Version (KJV): 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. Other verses that appear must be received and viewed using this light; for example:

(1.) 1^st Corinthians 3: 11, King James Version (KJV): 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

(2.) Luke 6: 47-49, : 47 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: 48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. 49 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.

(3.) John 3: 6-7, KJV: 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

(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.

Enough said.

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

 

(07/10/2018) Why Paul Observed Tradition

The image points to an annual Jewish feast recorded in the Bible, and Christ as the firstfruit from the dead through his resurrection.

 

Today, reply is on the observance of annual feasts by the Jews of the early church, and the transformation of the character and nature of their beliefs from ethnic, cultural, secular, and social to standards and values that are sacred, spiritual, and universal.  Passover and other annual gatherings of the heads of families in Israel focused on lawful inheritance, and the obligations of those who were firstborn and heirs through birth order.  All Israel were to acknowledge that a single tribe (all the males across several age groups of the Levites) represented and served as a living sacrifice to GOD on behalf of all the firstborn from the other eleven tribes.  In addition to the proclamation of changes in the traditional priesthood whereby Jesus Christ is to be obeyed as an High Priest after the order of Melchisedec, the new testament in the blood of Jesus proclaims a coming harvest from the earth, the fulfillment of sacred promises, salvation, and eternal life.  A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality forum using the ID “?” (Level 1 with 4 points, a member since May 10, 2016) posted the following:

 

Apostle Paul observed/kept the annual Holy days: Pentecost, Atonement + Feast of Unleavened bread, AFTER Christ died. True? Why was that?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?  Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:  Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.  (1st  Corinthians 5:  6-9 King James Version (KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Changed And Made Christ-like? (06/19/2018); Firstborn Of Every Creature (05/09/2018); A Threat Against Judaism (07/17/2017); Differences Among Sacred Events (04/10/2017); The Firstborn of GOD (01/02/2017); Frequency of The Lord’s Supper? (10/30/2016); A True Apostle? (09/20/2015); The Spirit and Pentecost (03/27/2013); The Passion at Gethsemane (03/28/2013)

 

“?”, the feasts observed by Israel commemorated and foreshadowed sacred events that included deliverance from Egypt for the firstborn of Jacob as well as Jesus Christ being  the firstfruit from the harvest and resurrection of GOD’s people from the dead.  Observance of the annual feasts commanded by GOD ensured that the Nation would have strong currents of communication and structure promoting leadership.  The heads of families, those who were firstborn and the heir, would regularly assemble. 

Saul of Tarsus, a Roman citizen, who later became known as the Apostle Paul, had to undergo multiple sacred operations and permanent changes whereby sinners repent, experience being born again through baptism (the death, burial, and rebirth of their inborn spirit), and grow-up again to mature/become ripe for harvest from the earth by the Lord at his appearing (the Advent; the Rapture; the Second Coming).  Saul had an experience of the resurrected Christ while traveling on the road having authority from the Temple at Jerusalem to identify and stamp out the Christians he might find at Damascus.  The Temple community wanted the Christians dealt with as a cult; however, their doctrine, history, and practices were increasingly being examined and studied as a new, legitimate sect within Judaism. 

In the same way GOD divided those at Babel confusing the language in order to complete the plan to overspread the earth (be fruitful and multiply), GOD brought persecution against the church at Jerusalem to spur evangelism and the spread of the Gospel.  Believers today must be built up and edified to become full persons endowed with the imparted, indwelling Spirit; and we are then exhorted to go forth and share what we have received.  Paul had to discover and gradually learn that those in Christ are a new creation.  The Christians who all began as Jews were challenged to acknowledge and operate on the basis of their Spirit from GOD, rather than their culture, ethnicity, gender, national origin, scholarship, station, or wealth.  Christian believers have a new covenant relationship to the Father through the Son that continues and fulfills eternal purpose, and that features new promises, prophecy, the new testament in the blood of Jesus, and fresh streams of sacred truth.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Exodus 13:  11-15, King James Version (KJV):  11 And it shall be when the LORD shall bring thee into the land of the Canaanites, as he sware unto thee and to thy fathers, and shall give it thee,  12 That thou shalt set apart unto the LORD all that openeth the matrix, and every firstling that cometh of a beast which thou hast; the males shall be the LORD’s.  13 And every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break his neck:  and all the firstborn of man among thy children shalt thou redeem.  14 And it shall be when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What is this? that thou shalt say unto him, By strength of hand the LORD brought us out from Egypt, from the house of bondage:  15 And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast:  therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.

(2.)  Zechariah 14:  16-21, KJV:  16 And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles.  17 And it shall be, that whoso will not come up of all the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain.  18 And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, that have no rain; there shall be the plague, wherewith the LORD will smite the heathen that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.  19 This shall be the punishment of Egypt, and the punishment of all nations that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.  20 In that day shall there be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD; and the pots in the LORD’s house shall be like the bowls before the altar.  21 Yea, every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah shall be holiness unto the LORD of hosts:  and all they that sacrifice shall come and take of them, and seethe therein:  and in that day there shall be no more the Canaanite in the house of the LORD of hosts.

(3.)  Acts 8:  1-4, KJV:  1 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.  2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.  3 As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.  4 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Acts 11:  19-26, 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.  23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.  24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith:  and much people was added unto the Lord.  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.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(01/31/2018) Divine Priesthood on Earth

A depiction of Adam as High Priest making sacrifice for atonement that must be received by GOD through fire from heaven.

 

Today, the Bible is discussed as a record of the divine priesthood in heaven appearing on the earth through mankind.  Those in the office of prophet are to serve as spokespersons in the relationship between GOD and mankind while only those consecrated to serve in the office of priest are to offer blood for the remission of sin.  From skins to holy garments, from the blood of circumcision to the blood of the cross, the priesthood has performed the works of atonement, manifesting the active presence who is GOD, and countering the operations of sin through divine provisions.  A writer in the “Yahoo! Answers” forum using the ID “Jim” (Level 1 with 90 points, a member since December 21, 2015) posted the following:
 

Whose idea was it to create the Bible?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,  As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:  If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.  To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,  Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.  Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious:  and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.  Unto you therefore which believe he is precious:  but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,  And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient:  whereunto also they were appointed.  But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;  Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God:  which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.  (1st Peter 2:  1-10, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Divinity of “Word” (01/26/2018); What Would Moses Say? (10/27/2017); Christ Our High Priest (10/25/2017); The First Book of the Bible? (11/20/2014); The Beginning of Wisdom? (11/21/2014); Recognizing True Prophets (05/02/2013); Jesus, A Party Animal? (05/03/2013)

 

“Jim”, the Bible began through what we call “oral tradition” before the development of reading and writing.  Adam and others of the Patriarchs lived for nearly a millennium (1,000 years); and it is thought that worship was held “in the gate” (i.e., at the entrance) to the Garden of Eden, and in the witness of the angel posted there.  In addition to understanding the Bible to be a written record of GOD revealing divinity to created beings and living creatures by using thousands of events within thousands of lives over the course of thousands of years, another important way for Christian believers to apprehend the many streams of truth from the Bible is to acknowledge that the holy writings document the development on earth of the sacred priesthood from heaven that is carried out and performed by Jesus Christ as High Priest within the Temple of Heaven.

The priesthood of Jesus as Son of the Highest was demonstrated to Adam, and shared with mankind replacing their lost inheritance.  Through the mechanism of the priesthood the offspring of Adam would become the new creation; would continue as “joint-heirs” with Christ; would receive words of comfort, promise, and prophecy to be proclaimed and repeated to future generations; would be granted sacred knowledge to practice the mysteries of atonement and propitiation for sin; and would continue the sacred work of reconciliation.

Many Christians believe that, under the guidance through Moses, the many oral traditions held among the Hebrews who formed the tribes of Jacob were blended with those from the mixed multitude that left Egypt.  In order to survive the years of famine, the Egyptian people and many others literally sold their land, their livestock, and themselves as slaves to Pharaoh.  As absolute ruler over a one-world empire, Pharaoh presented himself as a false god.  Details of the idolatry, occult practices, and impure worship that existed among the Egyptians were carefully separated from the doctrines and teachings that were to be a platform for a new nation and covenant people of GOD.  The Pentateuch that serve as the first five books of the Bible establish the pattern for all authentic holy writing.  Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

(1.)  Genesis 3:  21, King James Version (KJV):  21 Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.

(2.)  Exodus 28:  1-3, KJV:  1 And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest’s office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron’s sons.  2 And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty.  3 And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest’s office.

(3.)  Hebrews 7:  11-17, KJV:  11 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron?  12 For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law.  13 For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar.  14 For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.  15 And it is yet far more evident:  for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,  16 Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life.  17 For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.

(4.)  Hebrews 7:  21-28, KJV:  21 (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)  22 By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.  23 And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death:  24 But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood.  25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.  26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;  27 Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people’s:  for this he did once, when he offered up himself.  28 For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.

There is far more to be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended.  [For example, (5.)  Hebrews 9:  19-24, KJV:  19 For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,  20 Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you.  21 Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry.  22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.  23 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.  24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:]  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(11/16/2016) My Sheep Hear My Voice

 

 

Today, points are shared on diversity among believers and congregations, sacred knowledge, and that believers and followers of Jesus Christ still are called his “sheep”.  The essential things from GOD are immutable and unchanging, yet, the appearance of change and movement are fostered by diversity.  Similarly, the holy writings do not change in spirit, yet, are displayed in letter using multiple presentations, translations, and versions.  The “voice” of Christ as our master is to be “heard” and obeyed by believers using discernment to recognize and respond to the divine spirit content in doctrines, events, messages, practices, prophecies, etc.  Where the need is for sacred knowledge, only having an abundance of secular knowledge  results in spiritual confusion, ignorance, and unawareness.  When guided by the holy writings, acquiring, expressing, and nourishing faith within others goes forward on the basis of tested and enduring truth.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Juli” (a member since March 04, 2016) posted the following:

 

Christians, are the Jehovah’s Witnesses’ leaders right in their interpretation of the “Sheep and the Goats” referred to in Matthew 25:31-46?

According to the March 2015 Watchtower (Study Edition), the sheep are those who show loyalty to the JW leaders. This article titled “Loyally Supporting Christ’s Brothers” actually refers to this scripture to support their claim, “To the extent that you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”—MATT. 25:40.
There is not enough room here to go over every point, but here are a couple of quotes from the article and the link to it’s entirety.

“And what of the reason why people will be judged as either sheep or goats? The outcome hinges on how they have treated the remaining ones of Christ’s spirit-anointed brothers on earth.”

“He describes the sheep as “righteous” because they recognize that Christ has a group of anointed brothers still on earth, and the sheep loyally support the anointed during these critical last days.”

“The growing number of prospective sheep count it a privilege to support Christ’s brothers not only in the preaching work but also in other practical ways. For example, they give financial contributions and help to build Kingdom Halls, Assembly Halls, and branch facilities, and they loyally obey those appointed by “the faithful and discreet slave” to take the lead.”

https://www.jw.org/en/publications/magaz...

Update: JW anonymous, how is quoting straight from the watchtower and sharing the link to the article”spreading lies” about your organization? I refrained from giving my own opinion here because you JWs are always crying “Persecution”. These are your leaders’ words, not mine. LOL!

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon’s porch.  Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.  Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not:  the works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me.  But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:  And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.  My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.  I and my Father are one.  (John 10:  23-30, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  The Bible and Salvation (09/14/2016); Sheep of His Pasture (09/09/2016); Learning From A Spirit? (08/25/2016); From Cover to Cover? (01/04/2016); Many Forms of Christianity? (04/30/2015); The Sheep Who Lost Their Way? (11/18/2014); Restoring The Lost? (11/19/2014)

 

“Juli”, there are many assemblies and denominations promoting diverse expressions and practices on the basis of belief in Christ and his apostles.  While sinners are to come together as “sheep”, and the flock of GOD, members of the body of Christ (the church) are made in his image, are to serve as an appearance (manifestation) of his divine presence, and are not to behave as dumb (speechless) animals living in ignorance.  In the early church, believers depended on the truth spoken directly and plainly by Jesus Christ, by those specially prepared and taught by him, and by operations of the imparted, indwelling Spirit (we also say, the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Prophecy, the Spirit of Truth).  In addition to the oral tradition carried out and provided through praise, prayer and preaching, believers were gradually given sacred documents and holy writings that require some careful memorization, reflection, and formal study.  Even so, among modern Christians, there are many believers and congregations that do not value the Scriptures.  In place of that sacred knowledge provided from GOD, such believers seek to acquire greater secular knowledge and express genuine faith by relying upon carnal reason, emotions, and forms intended to abbreviate, embody, or symbolically preserve and convey the things of ancient truth (e.g., ceremonies, church history, good works, liturgy, the music ministry, rites, rituals, practice of the sacraments).  Consider again the following:

(1.)  Ezekiel 34:  30-31, King James Version (KJV):  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.

(2.)  John 10:  1-6, KJV:  1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.  2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.  3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice:  and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.  4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him:  for they know his voice.  5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him:  for they know not the voice of strangers.  6 This parable spake Jesus unto them:  but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.

(3.)  2nd Corinthians 4:  1-7, KJV:  1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;  2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.  3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:  4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.  5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.  6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.  7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

(4.)  1st Corinthians 12:  27-30, 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?

There is far more to be said, correctly applied, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (5.)  1st Peter 5:  2-7, 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 ensamples to the flock.  4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.  5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility:  for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.  6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:  7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(09/30/2016) Law, Vengeance, and Punishment?

Today, a reply is shared on the importance of law, judgment, and justice among Christian beliefs.  While atonement, redemption and salvation have overcoming and resisting sin as a major focus, the revelation of GOD through Jesus Christ centers more upon mankind becoming a new creation through the Savior’s blood.  Many now are in an ongoing process of permanent change that will be completed at the Advent (we say, the Rapture, the Second Coming) of Jesus.  Mortality is to no longer exist, and the committed believers will live as immortal, incorruptible companions of divinity.  On the one hand, every aspect of ministry and service to GOD must be understood as being in accordance with divine law.  Included are accountability within congregations, discipline within families, healing, inheritance, miracles, fulfillment of divine promises and prophecy as well as praise, proclamation of the Gospel, and preaching.  On the other hand, instead of being a formal codex or system of questionable demands, law is to be understood as “the force of truth” and the imperative that emerges by operations of the divine Spirit.  Thus, law is to be acknowledged as content from the character, makeup and substance of divinity.  Included are faith, forbearance, forgiveness, holiness, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin.  In no way does grace, mercy, and divine prerogative corrupt or oppose the delivery of divine justice.  A writer at “Yahoo! 7 Answers (Australia) using the ID “John” (Level 1 with 1 point, a member since January 08, 2015 ) posted the following:

 

Is vengeance and punishment an important part of christianity?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.   For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.  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.  And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.  (Romans 8:  1-10, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Presumption Is Never Helping (05/23/2016); Justice Not Revenge? (01/15/2015); A Culture of Judgment? (03/20/2014); Beyond Punishment (03/21/2014); A Guarantee of Heaven? (03/22/2014); Lawful Revenge? (01/02/2014); As GOD Loves Us? (01/03/2014)

 

“John”, throughout the holy writings, the word “vengeance” is used to speak of “justice”.  Mature Christian believers all acknowledge the sovereign authority of GOD—who is the Creator and owner of all that exists—to include administering judgment (we say, assigning value, determining quality, relegating purpose, and maintaining the extent of duration for the living as brief, finite, or eternal).  While divine law conveys the wrath of GOD against sin, it does so in agreement with divine love, promise, righteousness, truth, and wisdom.  Correction (i.e., demonstrations, encouragement, and added instruction to change attitudes,  behavior, and knowledge) and punishment (i.e., penalties and reprimand that may include physical beatings and death) come into view where judgment is also (1) the resolution of conflicts and the settlement of disputes by applying divine law; (2) enforcement of the sanctions in the law (i.e., allowances, boundaries, limits, methods, and restrictions established); and (3) the continuance or restoration of balance, fairness, impartiality, and stability (that may include appeals and further adjudication).  The fullness of law to maintain and provide justice includes admonitions, cautions, and warnings; applying outcomes (e.g., process, sentences, verdicts) from earlier tribunals; commandments; confiscation; licensing; monetary assessments, fines and liens; ordinances and statutes; precepts and principles; registration of boundaries and property lines; removal and separation of violators from the community/prey/victims (e.g., banishment, death, exile, incarceration); as well as returning stolen goods and property.  Such elements as ceremonies, rituals, and traditions that seem to be arbitrary and pertain more to chance often are condemned as irrelevant and nonessential.  However, the character, nature, and substance of the law always is to be received as exalted, for sacred law is also the expressed will of GOD, and is to be a pure revelation of divinity.  Consider how some of this is stated using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Isaiah 5:  20-25, King James Version (KJV):  20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!  21 Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!  22 Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink:  23 Which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him!  24 Therefore as the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff, so their root shall be as rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as dust:  because they have cast away the law of the LORD of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.  25 Therefore is the anger of the LORD kindled against his people, and he hath stretched forth his hand against them, and hath smitten them:  and the hills did tremble, and their carcases were torn in the midst of the streets. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand is stretched out still.

(2.)  Romans 7:  12-15, KJV:  12 Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.  13 Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.  14 For we know that the law is spiritual:  but I am carnal, sold under sin.  15 For that which I do I allow not:  for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.

(3.)  Romans 7:  21-25, KJV:  21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.  22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:  23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.  24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?  25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

(4.)  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.

(5.)  John 3:  16-21, KJV:  16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.  18 He that believeth on him is not condemned:  but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.  19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.  20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.  21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

There is far more to be said, carefully examined, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (6.)  Romans 12:  18-20, KJV:  18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.  19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath:  for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.  20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink:  for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/27/2016) The Cross and Judaism?

Today, points are shared on Jesus dying upon the cross, Judaism, and Israel’s denial of the Messiah.  In an effort to maintain their secular culture along with their heritage and oracles from GOD, the Jews as a Nation rejected and resisted change, and the departures from tradition that were displayed in the ministry of Jesus.  Included were attributing doctrine, prophecy, and other teachings to GOD; claiming relationship as an offspring of GOD; performing sacred events (we say, miracles) such as exorcism, healing, raising the dead; and presuming to exercise authority understood as held only by GOD such as forbearance and forgiveness of sin.  While it is true mankind deals with a Creator who is immortal, immutable, and incorruptible, even so, lasting change must occur within humankind for the living to apprehend fulfillment, growth, learning, and perfection.  The fighter at “Yahoo! Answers” using the ID “Peter” (Level 3 with 2,421 points, a member since October 19, 2012) posted the following:

 

How come Jesus has nothing to do with Judaism?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?  For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy:  and if the root be holy, so are the branches.  And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;  Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.  Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in.  Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:  For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.  Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God:  on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness:  otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.  And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in:  for God is able to graff them in again.  For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree:  how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?  For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.  (Romans 11:  15-25, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  World Peace Is Coming? (05/08/2016); The Cross Broke Every Curse? (02/25/2016); Academic Language? (12/10/2015); The Remnant? (10/12/2015); Instruments, Tools and Workers? (07/23/2015); Christ Brought A New Nature? (07/15/2015); More About the Trinity? (03/30/2015); Signs of Messianic Belief? (12/16/2012); Vows and Covenants? (12/17/2012)

 

“Peter”, trusting that, through operations of the Holy Spirit, blood, correction, and truth from the cross are flowing to here and now, the issue is not that Jesus has nothing to do with Israel and Judaism, rather, the Jews as a people in covenant with GOD have denied and rejected the one sent.  A revelation of grace that is an aspect of divine, living person must come into view.  Specific terms of their covenant during the days of Moses eventually established the compact with the tribes of Jacob as (1) consecrated, (2) eternal, and (3) indissoluble (we say, unbreakable).  They went so far as to agree that God should use affliction, death and suffering to chastise and correct the Nation, instead of replacing them as he was forced to do when his original partners (the seven tribes of Canaan) repeatedly violated their covenant.  Manipulated by the Sadducees who ruled the Temple community (who did not believe in angels, spirits, or resurrection from the dead), the crowds insisted the Lord be crucified, acknowledging it also meant they and their future generations would come under the divine curse for shedding of innocent blood (we say, murder).  When openly displayed upon the cross as “King of the Jews”, the hearts of the Nation had become hardened like that of Pharaoh, and they showed contempt and disdained the Savior.  It is not possible that the salvation from GOD that provides cleansing from all sin and eternal life as companions to divinity be accomplished by obedience to covenant law, or countless offerings and animal sacrifices for sin.  The necessary fulfillment of promise and prophecy that were expected to come through the Messiah was demonstrated in Christ only to those who were spiritually receptive.  Jesus was condemned for the crime of blasphemy because long-held doctrine and tradition among the Jews could not allow for divinity appearing incarnate (using the form and process of humankind).  Nor could there be an imparting of divine substance from GOD (we say, breath, life essence, word) to indwell the living.  Even so, only in the Anointed One could atonement, forgiveness, divine government, and lasting change be displayed to prepare mankind for the further operations of GOD.  Consider again how these ideas are shared using language from the Bible:

(1.)  Romans 10:  1-4, King James Version (KJV):  1 Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.  2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.  3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.  4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

(2.)  Hebrews 10:  1-5, KJV:  1 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.  2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.  3 But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.  4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.  5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:

(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 that could be said, must be carefully examined, and spiritually understood.  (For example, (4.)  Philippians 3:  7-10, KJV:  7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.  8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord:  for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,  9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:  10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

 

(07/23/2014) Grace is Not Against Law

Covenant, faith, grace, divine law, and mercy are topics, today.  Also there is more on an eternity of worship.  A “Yahoo! Answers” writer using the ID “craig” (Level 1 with 115 points, a member since July 07, 2014) posted the following:

 

Whats up with these so called Christians who preach against the ten commandments and jewish law in favor of grace?

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  An Eternity of Worshipping? (07/22/2014)—(5.)  Believers are confidant that their commitment to Christ will bear fruit as contentment, happiness, and satisfaction, because they are granted a foretaste of the life to come.  The believer’s faith is built up on the basis of actual experience, not by fantasy, imagination, make believe, and speculation.  Ones eternal life begins now, before their physical death and resurrection, through fellowship within the church, through awareness of the details in the holy writings that document miracles and sacred events, and through their own daily, human experiences of spirit growth, triumph, and victory.

(6.)  All worship by believers is an expression of their spirit content; and many simple activities and behaviors may be used in the course of worship (e.g., bowing, breathing, folding ones hands).  Only behavior directed toward acknowledgment of divinity qualifies as worship.  While worship for an assembly or congregation of believers is usually achieved by using fixed patterns and set programs of activity (we say, customs, liturgy, rites, rituals), the acknowledgement of GOD that is worship also goes forward as commitment to unselfish service, personal devotion, and the whole-hearted offering of oneself as an individual.  Corporate worship (i.e., as a body, as a group) requires agreement, collective understanding, and shared vision.  Thus, symbolic acts and pre-set routines are relied upon that provide the beauty of holiness—we say, balance, diversity, symmetry, clarity, concentration, continuity, energy, focus, and richness along with purity and simplicity.  Individual worship tends to emphasize humility, self-denial, and submission.  Many believers practice asceticism; shun material comforts; prefer private (we say, secret, and unspoken) prayers; pursue intense studies of the holy writings; and avoid social gatherings as features of their worship.  There are also believers who seek extra-biblical experiences of spirit knowledge and power as mystics.  See 1st Chronicles 16:  28-30, Matthew 6:  5-6, 2nd Corinthians 5:  5-10 and 17, Romans 8:  22-25, Hebrews 11:  1, KJV.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.  But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.  And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.  And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.  And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;  And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.  Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?  But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.  (Acts 15:  4-11, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  GOD Does The Divine Part (01/05/2014); Sin in Mind not Deed? (01/06/2014); The Benefit of Law? (11/15/2013); Are Holidays Bad? (11/16/2013); Law in Christian Belief? (09/03/2013); A Need to Know? (09/04/2013); The Benefit of Grace (03/19/2013); Magical Resurrection? (03/20/2013); By Grace (09/04/2012); Yet If I Judge (09/05/2012)

 

“craig”, here are a few points that should help build your understanding of Christian belief:

(1.)  Divine grace does not cancel or negate divine law (the expressed will of GOD)—or divine utterance such as commandment, proclamation, promise, and prophecy.  Grace is to be seen as one of the aspects of divinity whereby covenant relationship, once established through law to be eternal and permanent, yet, may be altered, clarified, and otherwise maintained.

(2.)  The Pharisees and Sadducees of Jesus’ day repeatedly attacked the Savior’s teachings as being in defiance of time-tested customs and traditions that have been provided by GOD through the covenant of Moses.  (As is often the case among clergy today, their actual focus was continuing and justifying their own authority.)  Jesus demonstrated that, in fact, his behavior and the doctrine were in agreement with, and carried out, the eternal purposes and workings of the law.  Believers all are to discern and respond to the spirit content and substance of the law that has always existed, yet, has continuously been ignored, improperly taught, misapplied, and neglected.

(3.)  Grace pertains to the sovereign will of GOD, and may be understood as a divine aspect within the full makeup of the Almighty.  Where the law may be regarded as a tool used for relationship with GOD that is external, formal and impersonal, grace should be understood as intimate, organic, and privileged.  Therefore, believers often say, grace is “divine prerogative.”  Grace interacts in balance and proportion with other inseparable aspects of divinity such as awareness, faith, holiness, longsuffering, love, righteousness, truthfulness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. 

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  Through grace, created beings and living creatures obtain comfort from GOD that, in humility, many label as “unmerited favor.”  However, grace is an imperative within the GODhead, and may not be appealed to, exploited as a weakness, influenced, or manipulated.  Grace is an ever present aspect of the active presence of GOD, like mercy within the process of divine judgment.  Mercy does not cancel or negate the demands of the law; mercy ensures that judgment will be balanced, thorough, righteous and unbiased.)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(06/19/2014) Certainty by Faith or by Tradition?

Resurrection and the account of Jesus raising a young girl from the dead is topic, today.  Also, there is more on discernment.  The writer at “Yahoo! Answers” using ID “Christian Metal Dru” (Level 2 with 696 points, a member since April 13, 2012) posted the following:

 

Who here can explain the meaning behind mark 5 40? 

And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he took the father and mother of the damsel and those who were with him, and entered in where the damsel was lying.

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  Discernment (06/18/2014)—(6.)  Correctly understood, discernment is more than an activity of ones mind, an intellectual operation, or a mental process.  All Spirit matter from GOD is alive (we say, active), is dynamic, and is organic indicating the continuing presence of divine awareness, direction, eternal purpose, sacred operations, and sovereign will.  Discernment is a gift from the Holy Spirit that appears through interactions and shifts occurring among and between spirit substances from the makeup of GOD that reside within created beings and living creatures.  Through baptism and continuing growth, every believer in Jesus Christ receives inseparable spirit matter that includes such aspects of divinity as faith, forbearance, holiness, joy, longsuffering, love, wisdom, truthfulness, and wrath against sin.  Just as ones faith may be no more than a grain of mustard seed, yet, exert extraordinary spirit power, other aspects of divinity may appear in what seems a minimal amount, yet put forth a fullness of divine force and effect.  Sacred knowledge and truth are not dependent upon the amount or quantity of the various sacred elements that appear so much as upon their balance and proportion within the inseparable whole.  For where one aspect of divinity appears, all are present.  Sin may not dominate awareness and self-will in created beings and living creatures, where consciousness and volition have been in-filled by divinity that appears as discernment.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him:  but Mary sat still in the house.  Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.  But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.  Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.  Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.  Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life:  he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:  And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?  She saith unto him, Yea, Lord:  I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.  And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.  (John 11:  20-28, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Jesus Rose? (11/08/2013); Why Was A Son Sent? (11/10/2013); Sacrificed and Risen? (10/06/2013); Assurances of Salvation? (10/07/2013); Our Present Comfort? (06/28/2013); Come As You Are? (06/29/2013)

 

Trusting GOD to make answer, here are a few points to consider that may be useful:

(1.)  On the surface, the first account of Jesus Christ reviving a dead person (we say, raising the dead) is a sacred event (we say, miracle) focused upon life and death.  More correctly, Christian believers are to realize there is a shift in sacred process away from the historical covenants and divine law, to the processes of faith, promise, and prophecy from GOD.  The Spirit content within created beings and living creatures is revealed as paramount to their divine judgment, and their eternal existence.

(2.)  Jairus is a ruler (we would say, officer in charge) of a local congregation (a synagogue).  Having heard reports of healings performed through the ministry of Jesus, Jairus approached Jesus to ask help for his teenaged daughter, who was dying back at their home.  Jesus agreed to intervene, however, before the two could arrive at Jairus’ home, three notable events occurred:  a) A woman having an issue of blood for more than a decade was healed by touching the hem of Jesus’ garment without his awareness, and without his first having granted her permission to touch him; b) Jesus complained that “virtue” (we may say, healing power) had gone out of himself; and c) a servant came with the message not to trouble Jesus, for the child was already dead.  Jesus encouraged Jairus to “only believe.”

(3.)  When Jesus arrived with Jairus, the professional mourners had already gotten there before him, and were beginning to wail and perform their traditional services to induce weeping and catharsis (we say, emotional release).  Jairus was again given assurance that his daughter would be recovered, that death is only “sleep”, and she would be awakened.

(4.)  As in the miracle of feeding 5,000 (where all were seated in groups of 50) and rebuking the storm at sea (peace be still), Jesus first established divine order.  The Savior dismissed the mourners, and created a select group of witnesses (3 disciples with the parents of the dead child).

There is far more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  For example, (5.)  In the account of Jairus’ daughter, Jesus is revealed as an incarnation of divinity, and is titled “the resurrection and the life.”  As the One come down from heaven, Jesus contains a supply of divine substance that is transferred when healing, and must be replenished through regular praise, prayer and worship.  Also, the first demonstrations of resurrection power are shown through a spoken word (we say, breath, life essence, spirit, utterance).)  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your faith.

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC

(05/14/2014) Changing Times and Laws?

Customs, divine law, Sabbath, and tradition are topics, today.  Also, there is more on why parents are careful to share the Gospel with their children.  The “Yahoo! Answers” writer using ID “Jordan” (Level 1 with 51 points, a member since April 28, 2014) posted the following:

 

I was thinking how people say they have the authority from God to change the sabbath and that we aren’t…!? 

…suppose to live by the law anymore because it’s done away with.
Well I was reading in Matthew today and came across this passage….
Matthew 13:36-43
….41 The Son of man shall send forth His angles, and they shall gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity. Iniqiuty is lawlessness i.e. Torahlessness.
And also how come Jesus preached so hard against people keeping the traditions of men and not the commandments of God?

 

THE BATTLE AXE:  Why the Gospel for Our Children (05/13/2014)—(5.)  Children in Christian homes are not being given a horror story intended for amusement and entertainment that focuses upon the  betrayal, torture, and death of one man.  Rather, they are being given the keys for correctly experiencing and understanding the issues for survival, the operations of divinity throughout the universe, and eternal life for all men.  Children may embody both the accomplishments and failures of their parents, may perpetuate both the blessings and curses that come upon their parents, and may further propagate either the good works, or the sins of their parents.  As a divine instrument, children connect finite and eternal being.  Through their offspring, the living continue despite their decease, and sacred institutions are made stable and sure.  Dynasty, inheritance and legacy all serve as devices to affirm, complete, and preserve covenant, law, judgment, promise, prophecy, and intimate relationship with GOD.  Children are not to be a sacrifice—damage or loss willingly endured to display commitment, respect, and submission; something of value destroyed in order to turn away divine wrath, to express reverence, or petition for lenience—offered and transferred to GOD upon an altar.  They are to be living evidences, and vessels of spirit matter and truth from GOD.  Often, the life challenges against children (e.g., injury, poverty, sickness, separation) are no different than those that come against adults.  Thus, many life lessons must be shared with our young while they are growing, not after they are grown.  Consider again the Scriptures:  Genesis 18:  16-19, Exodus 3:  14-15, Psalms 127:  3-5, Jeremiah 3:  19, Ezekiel 37:  19-28, Acts 2:  38-39, Romans 9:  8, Galatians 4:  27-29 and Revelation 2:  18-25, KJV.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW:  My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:  Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck.  When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.  For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:  (Proverbs 6:  20-23, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  To Keep It Holy (02/23/2014); 7 “Godly” Sins? (02/24/2014); About Sabbath (10/16/2013); We Shall Behold Him (10/17/2013); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013); Believers and the Cross (06/24/2013); Newness of Spirit? (01/04/2013); Two Different Testaments? (01/05/2013)

 

“Jordan”, here are a few points important to many Christian believers:

(1.)  As the “expressed will of GOD,” divine law is eternal, immutable, permanent, and unchanging.  However, correct application and response to the law may vary in accordance with the needs of created beings and living creatures, changes among and within the spheres of existence as well as the continuous revelation of divinity.

(2.)  For many, the primary focus for relationship with GOD is deliverance from sin (we say, salvation).  Many others are seeking blessing, divine gifts and rewards such as authority, dominion, possessions, and prosperity.  Still others are focused upon achieving a peculiar level of fellowship and intimacy as children of GOD.

(3.)  How we speak of the law must change.  During the ministry of Jesus upon the earth, the expression “the law” often was used to speak of the covenants established by Moses.  The body of customs and traditions that surrounded the covenants (e.g., the convenience of money-changers on holy ground within the Temple courtyards) were practiced as if law, yet, only continued through such flaws of human character as ignorance, laziness, presumption, and pride.

There is a lot more to be said, correctly understood, and spiritually apprehended.  (For example, (4.)  The ministry of Jesus Christ focuses upon the essence and righteousness of the law (we say, Spirit), and so does not annul, condemn, or reject the law.  Otherwise hidden aspects, operations, and purposes of divine law are proclaimed, restored, and uplifted.  Included are atonement, correction, healing, rebirth, repentance from sin, resistance to sin, perfection, and sanctification.).  Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful.  Be it unto you according to your meekness and faith.

If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:  Then shalt thou delight thyself in the LORD; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.  (Isaiah 58:  13-14, KJV)

THE BLACK PHOENIX
Washington, DC