Vance said:
Not our differences of belief, but our differences in attitude toward the other, which has a direct impact on the relative civility of the discussions. It is ironic that those who are most often calling for us to have pleasant and non-confrontational discussions are usually the ones making the types of statements which result in the discussions NOT being civil and polite.
Attitude is the key word here.
It is important to have a proper and healthy attitude towards those we may disagree with. The attitude that we are sitting a round-table of discussion, with every voice being equal, is the proper attitude. The attitude of being open to learn what others believe, and why, is a healthy attitude. The attitude of presenting one's own views, while at the same time, being open and gracious to people of differing views, is of paramount importance in these discussions. A good attitude is recognizing that no matter how strong and fervent our views may be on an issue, there are others, equally as fervent in their differing views, and their voices are just as valid as anyone else's.
But, differences in views are what many cannot handle without resorting to bad attitudes towards those they disagree with. Going into these discussions with a revved-up, "I'm right. You're wrong." attitude, is the wrong attitude. Insulting someone's intelligence or faith, is the wrong attitude. Using these boards as some kind of bully-pulpit or soap box, is the wrong attitude. Using the Bible to beat people over their heads, and beat people into submission with, is the wrong attitude. Attacking and insulting individuals or groups, confusing
spiritual warfare with personal attacks, is the wrong attitude. The 'steel trap' mindset, is the wrong attitude in these discussions.
You can not have a civil and polite discussion with a fellow Christian after telling him that he has weak faith, a disbelief in Scripture and trusts Man more than God.
Any call for a better tone for the discussions must begin with a complete abandonment of all such polemics.
Agreed.
Respect and dignity should be something extended to all members, regardless of their personal world-views.
We can discuss the relative impacts the beliefs have, the various theological issues, the scientific evidence, etc, but we MUST start with the presumption than ALL of us believe the Bible, believe that God is all-powerful and His Word must be taking over man's word in every instance and we must presume complete faith in God. Our differing beliefs on origins have no effect on these issues whatsoever, and until that point is recognized and is reflected in the postings, the discussions will always degenerate.
And I think that was the purpose of this thread.
I've done my fair share of in-depth discussions in these forums. I would imagine that you have too.
This thread OP topic rises above the fray of the various differences. It goes to attitudes and heart. It goes to a higher plane ... the bigger picture.
