(10/04/2020) A Matter Of Self-will?

A depiction of Jesus Christ acknowledging GOD the Father at Gethsemane.

Today, reply is on the opposition against divinity that resides within mankind through self-will. Human obedience, respect, reverence, and submission to GOD often appear to be predicated on mankind’s willful acceptance and insistence that human traits appear within the divine fullness. It is more consistent with the holy writings that mankind be recognized as a vessel containing divine deposits and endowments from the makeup of GOD. It is by mutuality of a divine character, consecrated presence, and a sacred nature that there are opportunities and possibilities for clear accord, and ongoing communication between the Creator and the created. Discussions of the sacred duty, sacrifice, and unselfishness carried out by Jesus Christ also require affirmation of divinity demonstrating consecrated grace, expressing divine prerogative, fulfilling eternal purpose, suppressing self-will, and manifesting the sovereign will of GOD. Within Christ, sacrifice is no longer a matter of formal ceremony and ritual, rather it is an act of dedication, lovingkindness through judgment, sanctification, and voluntary surrender. It is written: Psalms 40: 5-10, King James Version (KJV): 5 Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. 6 Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required. 7 Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, 8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. 9 I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest. 10 I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum using the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shown) posted the following:

‘Jesus was a willing sacrifice’: can anyone please explain what this means?

Did he feel he was doing something good by allowing people to execute him?

Was it not a pre-decided or predetermined outcome, just some events, and a guy accepting that he will be executed, and not trying to avoid it, even though he could have?

THE GOLDEN ARROW: He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. (Matthew 26: 42, KJV)

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Divine Character Must Appear (08/13/2020); Divine Process and Substance (06/24/2020); Spiritual Integrity and Maturity (05/12/2020); Divine Fruit From Suffering? (12/19/2018); Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); Comparing Sacred and Secular (03/15/2018); His Suffering At Gethsemane (03/12/2018)

“Anonymous”, the focus must be on self-will and its place in determining the integrity of human existence. Among mature Christian believers the transgression (i.e., violation of sacred law; sin) committed by Adam should be seen as an expression of the life essence and sacred substance imparted to mankind from the makeup of divinity as well as a display of the content of human consciousness and self-will (willpower). Inseparable aspects of divinity were provided to man that included balance, commitment, faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Although GOD has not put forth any aspect or spirit of sin, divinity shares in the accountability humanity must acknowledge for the origins of sin. The male and female existed as an appearance of divine authority and power, and as an expression of sacred love, yet, the pair were subject to mechanical process and natural law. Following the sin of Adam, the priesthood being carried out within heaven then was made available on the earth using divine operations for atonement, expiation, remission, and sacrifice that made visible the otherwise unseen operations of GOD through divine grace and the Holy Spirit. Divinity appeared on the earth using the form and life process of humanity (we say, the Incarnation as Jesus Christ) to demonstrate to mankind the authentic process and substance for fulfilling the demands (sanctions) of divine law (death) as well as for human repentance, rebirth, reconciliation, and for man to exist as the new creation. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

(1.) Romans 5: 10-15, King James Version (KJV): 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. 12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 13 (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. 15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

(2.) Romans 5: 18-21, KJV: 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

(3.) 1^st Timothy 3: 16, KJV: 16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

(4.) Hebrews 10: 12-18, KJV: 12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; 13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. 14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. 15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, 16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; 17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. 18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.

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

Image downloaded 10:10 PM, October 03, 2020 @ http://blog.peacebewithu.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Matthew-26-42.jpg

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(07/22/2020) Forgiveness is not DIY

 

Today, reply is on confession and forgiveness as sacred operations within the church performed by members of the body who are anointed, ordained, and sanctified. Believers are to accept accountability, perform specific duties, and continue as proactive on their own behalf as the people of Christ, however, believers also must agree that salvation, forgiveness, and other sacred practices in the church are not on the basis of do-it-yourself (DIY) and man-made methods.  Authentic and divinely lawful aspects of the full spirit
process and substance of the church can only appear through the
performance of covenant duty and unselfish service performed for one another by those who embody Jesus Christ. Correctly understood, all Christians are to resemble, reflect, and reveal the character and
likeness of Jesus Christ. Many Christian believers challenge and
resist clergy, hierarchy, and divine priesthood by insisting that
their own conscience, integrity, and merit in Christ must be
acknowledged as primary when their own salvation becomes a focus.
Many err because they covet authority, control, independence, and
separation; others encourage combativeness, comparison, competition, and condemnation. Even so, a priesthood on the earth modeled after that in heaven was provided as a divine blessing and gift to Adam that would manifest the cooperation of divine fullness with mankind.  In addition to sacrifice, expiation, and remission of sin, confession and forgiveness are among the works of priesthood, rather than the works of prophecy and revelation. It is written: Philippians 2:  2-8, King James Version (KJV): 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one
mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:  10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the
glory of God the Father. A fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion & Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

 

 

 

Do you confess your sins to a priest? Did you know that is necessary for salvation?

God can forgive anything if you truly repent through confession.

 

 

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.  Do all things without murmurings and disputings:  That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; (Philippians 2: 12-15, KJV)

 

 

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER:  Divine Forgiveness Ministers Grace (07/20/2020); Acknowledging And Confessing Sin (06/21/2020); Baptism Is Not DIY (05/28/2019); Let Us Reason Together (08/07/2019); Applying The Divine Standards (10/02/2018); Confessing Your Own Salvation? (03/02/2018); Prayer in Public? (02/24/2015)

 

 

 

“Anonymous”, within the church of Jesus Christ, many account the works of personal expression (e.g., confession, forgiveness, prayer, repentance) as
pertaining to love, prophecy and revelation, rather than to universal
order, sacred law, and priesthood. Confession and forgiveness are the outcome and result of grace, rather than ceremonies that declare condemnation and judgment.  In the same way justification and salvation are not matters of personal freedom or self-promotion, and must be completed by the workings of divinity, forgiveness for sin is not a matter of human affection, fellowship, kindness, and self-will (willpower).  Christians are to receive Jesus Christ as a divine High Priest who makes atonement for sin. Many mature Christian believers therefore agree that confession and forgiveness are most correctly acknowledged and practiced within the household of faith using an anointed priesthood, for there must be a transaction at the point where heaven and earth connect (i.e., a sacred altar; a consecrated table).  In addition to an openhearted, private conversation with divinity about ones own errors and transgressions, there must be an offering and application of spirit substance that include the atoning blood, character, and personhood of Jesus Christ as it resides within the priest.  Often, the concern for benefits and privileges from GOD (e.g., authority, blessing, freedom, power and rank) obscures the demands for celestial operations, divine order, sacred law, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. As a practice that makes present what we hope, those who are dedicated, disciplined, and mature through unselfish service, study of the holy writings, personal sufferings, and prayer should be entrusted as ministers to the body on behalf of those yet being built up and edified as developing believers. Consider the following that use language from the Bible, and a selection from the music ministry of John Michael Talbot & Terry Talbot:

 

(1.)  Psalms 32: 1-2, King James Version (KJV): 1 Blessed is he whose
transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2 Blessed is the man unto
whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.

 

(2.)  Matthew 9: 2-8, KJV: 2 And, behold, they brought to him a man sick
of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee. 3 And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man blasphemeth. 4 And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? 5 For whether is
easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk? 6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. 7 And he arose, and departed to his house. 8 But when the multitudes saw it, they
marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.

 

(3.)  Luke 7: 36-50, KJV: 36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that
he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to meat. 37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. 40 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. 41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors:  the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell
me therefore, which of them will love him most? 43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. 44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint:  but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

 

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually
apprehended. (For example, (4.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7j10za_3gQ.) Even so, I
trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

 

Image downloaded 1:17 PM, July 22, 2020 @ https://internationalforgiveness.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/1176903925-there_is_no_love_without_forgiveness.jpg

 

 

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/20/2019) Conflict Among Multiple Wills?

 

Today, reply is on living as a free individual, the error of “free will,” and the conflicts of will between the Creator and the created that can be seen in various life situations on the earth. Divine law and sacred operations must exist among the many individuals on the earth for there to be balance, focus, and peace. Examples include death that ends conflict, may establish changes that endure, and may provide closure and finality. Without humility, love, meekness, nonviolence, respect, and restraint, only the imbalance and tension are dominant and visible that exists between the process and substance of the flesh, and that of the Spirit. In addition to immature, self-contradicting, and underdeveloped followers of the Lord who generate disagreements and upheaval, there are impenitent sinners who continue iniquity and wickedness because they do not want to praise GOD, and instead they want to be praised. Such must come to a mature acceptance that their own existence and life can not be eternal unless they become Christ-like, and willingly receive a fresh endowment of spirit content from the makeup of GOD. It is written: Romans 13: 1-10, King James Version (KJV): 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. 5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. 8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. One of the fighters in the public forum at “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile is shared) posted the following:

 

If God gives us free will, why do we still go to Hell for using it to follow our own path?

If God is testing us, are we really living as a free individual, or does he pick our destiny.

Update: If we choose to follow God, we go to Heaven, if we choose to use our free will given by God, we go to Hell. Does this make any sense?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy. Wherefore David blessed the LORD before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee. For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding. (1^st Chronicles 29: 9-15, King James Version (KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Those Who Prefer Evil (09/02/2019); Self-will Is Not Law (08/23/2019); Ego, Pride and Self-awareness (12/31/2018); Self-Will And Christian Integrity (06/11/2018); GOD’s Will Be Done (04/27/2018); Prophesying By Music Ministers (11/06/2017); The Philosophy of Free Will? (04/08/2014); The Name(?) of GOD (04/09/2014); No Free Will (10/19/2010)

 

“Anonymous” in the same way there are recurring conditions and fixed patterns mankind must acknowledge as mechanical and physical law that govern existence and life on the earth, there are unchanging requirements through sacred law that serve as inseparable aspects of life for the operations of self-will (willpower) among created beings and living creatures. Where two or more wills and self-centeredness are present, conflict may arise that is concluded only by the fulfillment of mortality. Jesus Christ has appeared on the earth to provide new opportunities and possibilities that human will be released from conflict and spiritual confusion. Personhood and will within mankind are to reflect the image of divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Even so, for now, human will must remain limited, finite, and temporal. Despite having unseen aspects of mind and their using a separate physical form, the living must depend on one another for survival. There must be levels of agreement and accord among the living that remain in place throughout their communication, exchange, and interaction. The effects generated through the operations of sin promote self-destruction, nonexistence, violence, and a return to the conditions of chaos and flux that were in place before the foundation of heaven and earth. Sin has not been put forth by the Creator, and is no spirit substance. The operations of sin are contrary to both divine and human nature, yet, sin may dominate awareness and willpower in the living. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and the full universe maintained through divine order. Sin generates the expression of covetousness, desire, envy, lust, exaggerated pride, and selfishness. Rather than “free will” or self-will, developing and mature Christian believers are endowed to practice oneness without sameness and self-government that conforms to the sovereign will of GOD. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. John 1: 10-14, King James Version (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.

2. Matthew 26: 41, KJV: 41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

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

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended (for example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVM8eD-4pag). Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 12:18 PM, September 19, 2019 @ http://walkworthy.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/thy-word.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/18/2019) Now Are Ye Light

 

Today, reply is on what sinners can do to become consistent, mature, and “perfect”. As those called to minister on the earth representing Jesus Christ, there are times believers are not to speak their own words that are discouraging and negative; yet, they are not withholding truth, nor is there any practice of deceit and lying. The believer is sharing their faith, and displaying their commitment to speak on behalf of the Lord. Mankind on the earth may only become sinless through the operations of divinity, rather than any human discipline, practice, or self-regimen. The finite tools of intellect, logic, philosophy, science, and self-will (willpower) are not enough to bring about the permanent changes required to exist as the children of light. It is written: Galatians 2: 16-21, King James Version (KJV): 16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. 17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. 18 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. 19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. 20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. 21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information shown) posted the following:

 

I keep trying to be perfect but it is making me depressed. How do I learn to be happy with it?

People should strive for perfection. You should make discipline a strong suit or Jesus will hate you. You should also have found your aptitude by a young age , be the type of woman to take charge, be a life long learner, etc.

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. (Romans 13: 8-14, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: According To Your Faith (08/15/2019); We Must Acknowledge Christ (08/08/2019); Displaying A “Christian Personality”? (04/19/2019); Become As Little Children (12/13/2018); Living In The Light? (01/18/2015); Coming to the Light? (09/29/2014); We Are Still Sinning? (11/30/2013); Like a Thief? (12/01/2013)

 

“Anonymous”, the spirit substance imparted to us from the makeup of GOD must be built up within developing Christians through such elements as discovery, gradual growth, learning, unselfish service, and suffering. All Christian believers begin as sinners who willingly turn to divinity for guidance and support to overcome the operations of sin. Sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and the universe put forth through divine order. More than this, sin promotes nonexistence and a return to the conditions of chaos, flux, and streams without direction that were in place before Creation (we say, preexistence). While sin is no spirit or feature put forth from GOD, sin may dominate awareness and self-will (willpower) in created beings and living creatures. The death of Christ on the cross has not eliminated sin, yet, mankind now receives divine tools to more correctly recognize, reject, and resist the operations of sin. In addition to the atoning blood of Jesus there is a fresh endowment of life essence (breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD that includes the inseparable aspects of Christ-likeness (e.g., faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovingkindness, wisdom, and wrath against sin). Believers are encouraged to display the spirit of Christ in their lifestyle and daily routines; in what they choose to say and speak; and in what they choose to hear and see. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible, and a presentation from the music ministry of Steve Amerson:

1. Micah 6: 7-8, King James Version (KJV): 7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? 8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?

2. Ephesians 5: 1-8, KJV: 1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; 2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. 3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them. 8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

3. Ephesians 5: 17-20, KJV: 17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. 18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge1axMPsN-g&list=PLN-HWgUQXbLMnDp4XNtZPz4Ejq_BFYE4C&index=4) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 12:03 PM, September 17, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/58/70/db/5870db510a7ab99042f010bdd2745516–colossians–psalms.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/06/2019) Judging Another Person’s Conversion

A depiction of Christ repelling spiritual corruption and darkness from the life of a young sinner.

 

Today, reply is on the wisdom of judging the conversion of others among Christian believers; and that judgment, repentance and salvation are operations that may be managed and completed only by GOD. Judgment within the church of Jesus Christ is to be an operation of the Holy Spirit, not the emotions, opinions, and politics of the flesh. To arrive at justice, otherwise invisible elements and subtleties (i.e., barely visible differences; hidden shifts in focus, meaning, and value)—both good and bad—must be uncovered and revealed. It is written: 1^st Corinthians 4: 1-5, King James Version (KJV): 1 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. 5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile data shared) posted the following:

 

Christians: If Jeffrey Dahmer truly repented as he says on YouTube “What if Dahmer found God earlier”, is he in Heaven? Isn’t that unfair?

that atheists yet go to hell, and such an individual gets the chance to “Heaven” just for regretting 17 murders?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: Accuse not a servant unto his master, lest he curse thee, and thou be found guilty. There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother. There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness. There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up. There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men. (Proverbs 30: 10-14, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Repentance Must Happen Now (06/07/2019); Become As Little Children (12/13/2018); Foolish People and Unwise (10/26/2017); Conversion is by GOD? (08/23/2016); Theoretical Forgiveness? (07/03/2013); The Return in Glory? (07/04/2013); About Conversion (09/03/2012); By Grace (09/04/2012)

 

“Anonymous”, mature Christian believers usually agree, it is unwise to judge the spiritual fullness and quality of others within the church; more than a change of attitudes, behavior modification, and good manners must appear. There must be an examination of the full spirit content within the other. Our focus as those also in need of salvation should be on displaying the image of Jesus Christ to the world, and on fulfilling ones own accountability, commitment, and preparation. The process and substance of human judgment emerge from and continue aspects of our lives on the earth that are carnal, material, and social. For believers to understand properly the divine process of judgment, of repentance, or of becoming joined to divinity through the resurrection of Jesus Christ first requires our acknowledgment that GOD is a spirit who operates on the earth within the consciousness and self-will (willpower) of created beings and living creatures. Divine fullness (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) is present and active through law, sacred principles for exchange and interaction, eternal purpose, and the sovereign will of GOD. Just as divinity is the origin of existence and life, GOD is the origin of forgiveness, mercy, redemption, repentance, and salvation. In addition to grace, impartiality and divine prerogative being elements in the administration of sacred law, the inseparable aspects of spirit substance within the makeup of GOD together determine the outcome of all divine reviews. Included are faith, holiness, oneness without sameness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Judgment appears as a further revelation of the unseen wherein the righteousness of divinity will appear, rather than emotion, favor, or feelings. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Ezekiel 18: 23-30, King James Version (KJV): 23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? 24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die. 25 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal? 26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die. 27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. 28 Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 29 Yet saith the house of Israel, The way of the Lord is not equal. O house of Israel, are not my ways equal? are not your ways unequal? 30 Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.

2. Romans 14: 4, KJV: 4 Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.

3. James 4: 11-12, KJV: 11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. 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.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 10:58 AM, September 05, 2019 @ https://ignite4christ.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/repentance.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/05/2019) Divine Spirit Within Animals?

A depiction of Abraham like Adam receiving a ram from GOD to be offered in sacrifice for sin in place of his heir.

 

Today, reply is on the need among animals to read the Bible, and to receive prophecy, revelation, and sacred knowledge. Animals have an innate consciousness of GOD as part of their makeup and substance. Human beings have no reason to doubt that animals also can apprehend and respond to the operations of divine fullness (we say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit). Animals are an appearance and manifestation of the sovereign will of GOD as Creator. Mankind was fashioned and formed by the divine hand, and completed using life essence from the Creator (we say, breath, spirit, word). The beasts and living creatures appeared as acts of GOD when spoken and uttered into existence. While animals continue in covenant relationship with divinity from the times following their deliverance on the ark of Noah, their survival does not depend on their finite intellectual skills and traits. Mature Christians readily accept that the animals gathered to the ark did so in response to promptings by the Holy Spirit, not the preaching of Noah; the ravens who fed the prophet Elijah at the brook-side, were commanded and guided by GOD; and the lions who demonstrated divine restraint while the prophet Daniel was present within their lair acknowledged the divine Creator and Maker. Our pets (and we ourselves) operate as having animal intelligence that includes consciousness, emotions, empathy, instinct, and intuition; and many display an ability to communicate among themselves. Even so, languages and literacy as seen among mankind has not been observed and reported among the many beasts living on the earth. It is written: Romans 8: 22-23, King James Version (KJV): 22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. 23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answer” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Night city light” (Level 2 with 253 points, a member since August 20, 2019) posted the following:

 

Why is Bible only for humans, why can’t animals read Bible, does that mean other beings are less important in God eyes?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; (Colossians 1: 19-23, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Was Creation A Failure? (05/13/2019); How Did Noah Know? (10/14/2018); Multiply, Replenish and Rule (08/27/2017); A Species of Animal? (01/31/2017); The Covenant of Noah? (12/16/2014); Atone, Judge and Replenish (12/17/2014); Animals Do Not Sin? (09/29/2013); GOD is Acknowledging (09/30/2013); Money-changers in The Temple? (06/23/2013); Believers and the Cross (06/24/2013)

 

“Night city light”, angels and animals are not “living souls” within the Creation, and their needs for divine process and sacred knowledge are not the same as that among humankind. Only mankind is challenged to communicate, exchange, and interact with divinity by having the same awareness and sacred knowledge granted to Adam, and given to them in the form of life essence (breath; spirit; word) from the makeup of GOD. Because animals were put forth having aspects of the same inseparable spirit content, they also respond to the Maker as authority, power, active presence, and sovereign will, however, they do not relate as offspring, or sons and daughters of GOD. The primary focus of divine judgment is the presence and expression of spirit content from GOD. Human consciousness and self-will (willpower) are to display spirit content and influence that go beyond emotion and feelings. The endowment of sacred spirit imparted to the living includes faith, holiness, longsuffering, lovinkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin.

While some people will show favor and disfavor to others because they are able to read and recite the things that are written in the Bible, our Father in heaven does not demand that all created beings and living creatures be able to quote from the divine law, memorize the advice and counsels recorded as Scripture, or read and write the full collection of documents, epistles, messages, and prophecies preserved as the Bible. Whether a person will be accepted by divinity, accounted worthy to be granted eternal life, and whether they will be approved as having meaning, quality and value as life companions to GOD depends on things that describe divinity more than on things that describe mankind.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, divine judgment and salvation go forward on the basis of the forgiveness, grace, impartiality, eternal purpose, and righteousness of GOD, rather than the flaws, infirmities, and sins of the living. The character, possibilities and potential of men and angels continue to be shown through behavior that is animal, human, or divine; and is often put forth as a mixture of the three. Finite human awareness and self-will can be determined by operations of sin—even though divinity has never created or put forth sin.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 12:30 PM, September 04, 2019 @ http://alittleperspective.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/gen-22-13-web-watermarked-1024×560.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/04/2019) How To Serve GOD

 

Today, the reply is on what a person must do in order to serve divinity. All Christian believers are to serve GOD by being Christ-like. All are to display and make present the character, image, and substance of Jesus Christ within their lifestyle and daily routines. Money is a man-made tool for use within the world system like philosophy, politics, science, and technology. By centering their intent and purpose on human survival through the use of money and other man-made devices, many have become idolaters and those who bestow their attention, thoughts, time, and worship on false gods. At best, the things of the world will continue the existence of the world for a brief time, and can not replace the eternal salvation provided through Jesus Christ. It is written: Luke 12: 13-21, King James Version (KJV): 13 And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. 14 And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? 15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. 16 And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: 17 And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? 18 And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. 20 But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? 21 So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. The fighter in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “Breakthrough” (Level 6 with 15,758 points, a member since June 29, 2013) posted the following:

 

The bible says you cannot serve both money and God – so how do you serve God?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. (Revelation 22: 1-7, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Our Displays of Divinity (06/19/2019); Willingness To Forgive Others? (05/24/2019); Giving To The Homeless (03/13/2019); Known By His Fruit (11/04/2018); Duties of a Christian? (03/13/2018); Being A Good Samaritan (02/18/2018); Knowing the Invisible GOD (09/17/2017); What Does Divinity Want? (03/13/2017)

 

“Breakthrough”, in the same way the operations of sin within created beings and living creatures requires that their awareness and self-will direct their desire and expression to evil and wickedness, many Christian believers would agree, that to serve GOD requires that a person direct their awareness and self-will (willpower) to acknowledging divine law and the holy writings, to practicing sacrifice and unselfishness, and to continuing in a healthy relationship with divinity through communication, exchange, and interaction within a community of believers. To serve is to carry out and perform the will of another without having to be coerced; to maintain alertness and wait for their commands without complaining or indulging distractions; and to display comfort, encouragement, forgiveness, and mercy in judgment. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Joshua 24: 14-16, King James Version (KJV): 14 Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. 15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. 16 And the people answered and said, God forbid that we should forsake the LORD, to serve other gods;

2. Joshua 24: 19-24, KJV: 19 And Joshua said unto the people, Ye cannot serve the LORD: for he is an holy God; he is a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins. 20 If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath done you good. 21 And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD. 22 And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are witnesses. 23 Now therefore put away, said he, the strange gods which are among you, and incline your heart unto the LORD God of Israel. 24 And the people said unto Joshua, The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.

3. Romans 6: 16-23, KJV: 16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. 19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. 20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. 21 What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. 22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Colossians 3: 5-17, KJV: 5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: 6 For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: 7 In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. 8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: 11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. 12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 1:57 PM, September 03, 2019 @ https://i.vimeocdn.com/video/636935843_1280x981.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(09/02/2019) Those Who Prefer Evil

 

Today, reply is on those who prefer evil and wickedness, and holy writings that teach on such sinners among those who are to be in accord and covenant relationship with divinity. Developing and mature Christian believers eventually acknowledge that evil, sin, and wickedness are not fruits produced through the imparted Spirit of GOD. None may lay hold on salvation relying on the operations of carnal desire, self-will, and finite human willpower. It is written: Romans 8: 5-9, King James Version (KJV): 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Anonymous” (no profile information appears) posted the following:

 

What if I prefer evil over good?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil; In that I command thee this day to love the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commandments and his statutes and his judgments, that thou mayest live and multiply: and the Lord thy God shall bless thee in the land whither thou goest to possess it. But if thine heart turn away, so that thou wilt not hear, but shalt be drawn away, and worship other gods, and serve them; I denounce unto you this day, that ye shall surely perish, and that ye shall not prolong your days upon the land, whither thou passest over Jordan to go to possess it. I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them. (Deuteronomy 30: 15-20, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: Heathen and Pagan Ways (09/01/2019); Works Without Divine Faith? (05/06/2019); The Penalty of Death? (04/26/2019); Known By Spiritual Fruit (03/06/2019); Doing The Devil’s Work? (02/21/2019); Recognizing Holy and Unholy (01/31/2019); Sinners Must Become Convicted (11/27/2018)

 

“Anonymous”, there are many who feel that (1) GOD does not exist; (2) there is no reason to be afraid of bad consequences or punishment for your attitudes and behavior; (3) mankind only has to answer the laws of nature; and (4) I am free from the laws and restrictions made by other people. When those who are entered into accord and covenant relationship with divinity repeatedly choose to violate divine law, and continue as unrepentant sinners, they come under the curses of the law, rather than the blessings. As those in defiance and rebels against the sovereign will of GOD, they are labeled as “workers of iniquity” and “transgressors”. More than this, they are those who reject forgiveness and despise divine mercy. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. Deuteronomy 29: 16-21, King James Version (KJV): 16 (For ye know how we have dwelt in the land of Egypt; and how we came through the nations which ye passed by; 17 And ye have seen their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were among them:) 18 Lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe, whose heart turneth away this day from the LORD our God, to go and serve the gods of these nations; lest there should be among you a root that beareth gall and wormwood; 19 And it come to pass, when he heareth the words of this curse, that he bless himself in his heart, saying, I shall have peace, though I walk in the imagination of mine heart, to add drunkenness to thirst: 20 The LORD will not spare him, but then the anger of the LORD and his jealousy shall smoke against that man, and all the curses that are written in this book shall lie upon him, and the LORD shall blot out his name from under heaven. 21 And the LORD shall separate him unto evil out of all the tribes of Israel, according to all the curses of the covenant that are written in this book of the law:

2. Leviticus 26: 13-21, KJV: 13 I am the LORD your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, that ye should not be their bondmen; and I have broken the bands of your yoke, and made you go upright. 14 But if ye will not hearken unto me, and will not do all these commandments; 15 And if ye shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my commandments, but that ye break my covenant: 16 I also will do this unto you; I will even appoint over you terror, consumption, and the burning ague, that shall consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart: and ye shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it. 17 And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you. 18 And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins. 19 And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass: 20 And your strength shall be spent in vain: for your land shall not yield her increase, neither shall the trees of the land yield their fruits. 21 And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me; I will bring seven times more plagues upon you according to your sins.

3. Psalms 7: 11-16, KJV: 11 God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day. 12 If he turn not, he will whet his sword; he hath bent his bow, and made it ready. 13 He hath also prepared for him the instruments of death; he ordaineth his arrows against the persecutors. 14 Behold, he travaileth with iniquity, and hath conceived mischief, and brought forth falsehood. 15 He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch which he made. 16 His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. Ezekiel 18: 23-28, KJV: 23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? 24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die. 25 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal? 26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die. 27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. 28 Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded @ 9:51 AM, September 01, 2019 @ https://i.pinimg.com/736x/90/d4/d5/90d4d5e9442b1f67022d62fa8755aa26.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(08/13/2019) That Not Of Yourselves

 

Today, reply is on the dependence of salvation on the sacred element of grace, rather than on eternal condemnation, obedience, and other features associated with sacred law. Sinners are not justified by their own works, rather by the works of GOD. Many Christians speak of grace as unmerited favor, a special show of kindness, and of pardon for offenses. However, there is no “cause” or justification for displays of grace except that they are authentic expressions of the otherwise invisible and unseen personhood within divinity. In addition to gratitude and humility, the correct response to the grace of GOD that developing believers will provide include consistency, faithfulness, obedience, respect, righteousness, and trust. It is written: John 1: 15-17, King James Version (KJV): 15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. 16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” Religion and Spirituality public forum who uses the ID “Forrest Toney” (Level 7 with 80,871 points, a member since February 12, 2011) posted the following:

 

How many Christians believe that they will escape Hell even though they don’t obey all of Jesus’ sayings?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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: 5-11, King James Version, KJV)

 

THE DOUBLE DAGGER: We Must Acknowledge Christ (08/08/2019); Salvation Through Jesus Christ (03/25/2019); The Platform of Spirit (03/21/2019); Displaying Faith Through Works (03/04/2019); The Gift Of GOD (10/15/2018); The Gift(s) From GOD (04/08/2018); Jesus Paid It All (04/04/2018); Yes, Jesus Did Die (04/01/2018); How Are We Justified? (03/05/2018)

 

“Forrest Toney”, in the same way Jesus Christ appears through the accord of divinity and not of himself, sinners are saved by grace (divine accord) rather than human devices. Among mature Christian believers, the operations and purposes of the law are directed to the functioning of Creation and the further putting forth of divine order, rather than to salvation and the recovery of mankind from sin. While sacred law defines, exposes, identifies sin, and makes a peculiar expression of divine love, the law itself does not declare forbearance, forgiveness, mercy, reconciliation, or redemption. Where believers focus on the judicial and legal concepts important to having benefits through the law, many continue in error failing to apprehend also that the invisible, unseen character, personhood, process, and substance of divinity are being openly displayed and revealed.

Sinners are saved by grace, an aspect of the full makeup of GOD. Without a saving relationship to divinity, whether they are conscious of it or not, ones condition by godly standards must be that of condemnation, guiltiness, misery, shame, and wretchedness. By the actions of grace, GOD dismisses both the darkness and negativity of their inner person, and their outward lifestyle, so to speak. Choosing to come to Christ, sinners are encouraged through changes, discoveries, new opportunities, and new possibilities.

Because of GOD’s grace embodied as Jesus Christ, inseparable aspects of the makeup of GOD are imparted to indwell those welcoming Christ through their own repentance. Included are faith, holiness, joy, respect, righteousness, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Every element and feature required for salvation is supplied, so that GOD’s grace is said to be “all sufficient.” Thus, more than simply that GOD has divine prerogative and the authority to do as he pleases, grace describes the flowing together of many different sacred elements and operations. Included are benevolence, generosity, eternal purpose, impartiality (no bias, bigotry, prejudice), and sovereign will. The elements of desire, determination, preference, and self-will (willpower) within the sinner have no effect or power to cause or determine a person’s salvation from the divine judgment against sin. Consider again the following that uses language from the Bible:

1. 2^nd Corinthians 12: 6-10, King James Version (KJV): 6 For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me. 7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

2. Ephesians 2: 4-7, KJV: 4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: 7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.

3. Ephesians 2: 8-10, KJV: 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

There is far more that should be said, correctly examined, and spiritually apprehended. (For example, 4. John 1: 10-13, 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.) Even so, I trust this fragment will be useful. Be it unto you according to your faith.

 

Image downloaded 4:13 PM, August 12, 2019 https://rightpunditry.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/for-by-grace-are-ye-saved.jpg

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC

(06/21/2019) Justified By Church Attendance?

 

Today, reply is on the Christian life process for the salvation of sinners as one of receiving divine substance for spiritual change and growth more than one of becoming acceptable to GOD by exercising human willpower, and maintaining obedience to sacred law. In the system of Christian beliefs, a relationship is to be in place whereby a sinner is acknowledged, justified, and permanently joined to the Creator through the character, eternal purpose, and righteousness of GOD, rather than on the basis of their own behavior and temporal works. Through Jesus Christ, error, sin, stubbornness, and wickedness are never justified; the blood of Jesus justifies commitment, forgiveness, growth, not giving up, reconciliation, repentance, and sanctification. It is written: Psalms 1: 1-6, King James Version (KJV): 1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. 5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. One of the fighters in the “Yahoo! Answers” public forum on Religion and Spirituality who uses the ID “Chris” (Level 1 with zero (0) points shown, a member since February 20, 2015) posted the following:

 

Why is it common for catholics to sin during the week but then justify those sins by going to church on Sunday’s?

I’ve noticed that many catholics seem to think its ok to cheat on their wives, do drugs, drink heavily, molest children and so forth and then since they go to church on Sunday’s they think their behavior is justified. Why?

 

THE GOLDEN ARROW: 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: Challenges To The Church? (03/01/2019); How Are We Justified? (03/05/2018); There Must Be Rebirth (01/21/2018); Deeds Of The Law? (09/10/2017); Transformation Not Obedience Alone (07/02/2017); Become Like Jesus Christ? (10/27/2016); Good Christians and Church? (10/19/2016); Relationship With Our Creator? (03/16/2015)

 

“Chris”, regular church attendance and becoming a follower of Jesus Christ does not justify sin, rather, a peculiar lifestyle having specific practices to turn away from sin are justified. Sinners who turn to GOD through Jesus Christ all must become “born again” (we say, experience rebirth), must “grow up again” as developing believers, and go on to become mature Christians. The sacred process may require a lifetime to complete, for a transformation must occur wherein spirit substance imparted from the makeup of GOD (we also say, divinity; the Godhead; the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit) increases its influence and power within the consciousness and self-will of the repentant believer.

Sin promotes the destruction of Creation, and a return to preexistence (i.e., the conditions in place before the founding of heaven and earth). Mankind must regard sin as an enigma, a puzzle that has no solution, and an influence whose operations may dominate awareness and self-will within created beings and living creatures. Sin has no divine origin; and is no spirit substance, or physical thing created by divinity. Even so, sin opposes the continued existence of divine law, the Lawgiver, and divine order throughout the universe. Because the presence and operations of sin appear as natural, normal, and a continuing aspect of life on the earth, most fail to correctly recognize and respond to sin as contrary to their own survival.

The church established by Jesus Christ has provided divine law, multiple descriptions of sin, and other devices that do not eliminate sin. Thus, sin may be rejected and resisted, yet, not removed. The most important gift from GOD that allows the living to turn from sin is the fresh endowment of spirit matter from the makeup of GOD that one may receive through baptism. Inseparable aspects of divine fullness are imparted to the living that include balance, faith, holiness, joy, hope, longsuffering, lovingkindness, personhood, wisdom, and wrath against sin. Thereby, developing believers can respond to life challenges and “growing pains” while on the earth as sons and daughters of GOD who are not fully perfected, and who are being edified (built up) through discernment, discovery, gradual growth, fellowship with others who have sacred knowledge in place of secular knowledge, study of the holy writings, unselfish service, and suffering.

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

 

Image downloaded 5:17 PM, June 20, 2019 @ https://image.slidesharecdn.com/thechristianlife-170510195121/95/the-christian-life-2-638.jpg?cb=1494445945

 

THE BLACK PHOENIX

Washington, DC