I am withdrawing

[Debi1967]

I don't get it...pm me a better explaination if ya would.

I got it ...because I have been there before myself ...

I think what Jim is seeing is that we have so many threads up about this forum itself and about it's own structure that he is seeing that as it's inner politics. What we have few of is threads that actually talk about Jesus and the gospel we are supposed to share and how to share it with others.

This whole forum site wide not just us is developing day to day and there seems to be no end in site of all the policy changes that are taking place all the time. In fact that has pretty much taken precedent for a lot of people instead of thinking how we can advance Christ better. It has become instead a raging battle of this group against that group. IE the WWMC vs Conservatives forum battle thread....

IE All the polls about changing policies

IE All the wikis about protocols on how to change this and that.....

Those are political in nature instead of Christ driven in nature.

Just my opinion anyway or at least what I am taking away from his post

Lovingly In Christ
Debi

 

[Nadiine]

I got it ...because I have been there before myself ...

I think what Jim is seeing is that we have so many threads up about this forum itself and about it's own structure that he is seeing that as it's inner politics. What we have few of is threads that actually talk about Jesus and the gospel we are supposed to share and how to share it with others.

This whole forum site wide not just us is developing day to day and there seems to be no end in site of all the policy changes that are taking place all the time. In fact that has pretty much taken precedent for a lot of people instead of thinking how we can advance Christ better. It has become instead a raging battle of this group against that group. IE the WWMC vs Conservatives forum battle thread....

IE All the polls about changing policies

IE All the wikis about protocols on how to change this and that.....

Those are political in nature instead of Christ driven in nature.

Just my opinion anyway or at least what I am taking away from his post

Lovingly In Christ
Debi

I think what's being missed in it all is that God uses all of us differently, and we're all wired differently.

If all of us thought only one way, then something else would severely lack elsewhere. Without somebody tending to the "politics" (structure) of this site, nobody would have a site to participate in. (same with any church/group etc.)

We are a BODY of Christ - as Paul taught us, one is a hand, one is foot, one is a mouth, one is an ear...... each one performs services in EACH area that God has gifted them to serve in to make a balanced, efficient whole body.

As I read this, it looks to me like one wants to CUT OFF the arm becuz the FOOT IS MOST IMPORTANT. etc. etc.

Let us all work in harmony where God has gifted us to work and serve Him. Let's not forget that one gift is "administrations". We aren't all gifted evangelists and administration is just as important.
Without that, the evangelist lacks his notes or flannelgraph to use for the kids class.

We are all needed in the body of Christ and as believers, we all are called by God to do different things. Just becuz we address Erwin to get Christianity put back to the forefront, doesn't mean we also don't witness Christ elsewhere on these boards.
As if we can't multitask? Every single post doesn't have to be hammering a message to lost people imo.

 

[Debi1967]

I think what's being missed in it all is that God uses all of differently, and we're all wired differently.

If all of us thought one way, then something else would severely lack elsewhere.
Without somebody tending to the "politics" (structure) of this site, nobody would have a site to participate in.

We are a BODY of Christ - as Paul taught us, one is a hand, one is foot, one is a mouth, one is an ear...... each one performs services in EACH area that God has gifted them to serve in to make a balanced, efficient whole body.

As I read this, it looks to me like one wants to CUT OFF the arm becuz the FOOT IS MOST IMPORTANT. etc. etc.

Let us all work in harmony where God has gifted us to work and serve Him. Let's not forget that one gift is "administrations". We aren't all gifted evangelists and administration is just as important.
Without that, the evangelist lacks his notes or flannelgraph to use for the kids class.

We are all needed in the body of Christ and as believers, we all are called by God to do different things. Just becuz we address Erwin to get Christianity put back to the forefront, doesn't mean we also don't witness Christ elsewhere on these boards.
As if we can't multitask? Every single post doesn't have to be hammering a message to lost people imo.

I don't disagree with this assessment .... I was trying to answer someone's else's post because at one time I could not see the forest for the trees myself and that was how I felt at the time. So therefore I was trying to give perspective into how another might look at the situation.

By the way it was my husband who very patiently I might add taught me about all the parts of the body being needed to act as one .... Actually I think he hammered it into my head until I got through my thick skull....

 

[Nadiine]

I don't disagree with this assessment .... I was trying to answer someone's else's post because at one time I could not see the forest for the trees myself and that was how I felt at the time. So therefore I was trying to give perspective into how another might look at the situation.

By the way it was my husband who very patiently I might add taught me about all the parts of the body being needed to act as one .... Actually I think he hammered it into my head until I got through my thick skull....

Oh no problem Debi!! I was just making a general statement too - I understood your post fully and what you were doing... my reply was just to make the note to those who think one set of Christians working for something isn't as important as another's type of concept.

I totally get what you were doing in trying to explain what Jim may have meant by his original post - and I agree with you, that's what I think he meant too.

 

[Debi1967]

Oh no problem Debi!! I was just making a general statement too - I understood your post fully and what you were doing... my reply was just to make the note to those who think one set of Christians working for something isn't as important as another's type of concept.

I totally get what you were doing in trying to explain what Jim may have meant by his original post - and I agree with you, that's what I think he meant too.

 

[JimfromOhio]

I got it ...because I have been there before myself ...

I think what Jim is seeing is that we have so many threads up about this forum itself and about it's own structure that he is seeing that as it's inner politics. What we have few of is threads that actually talk about Jesus and the gospel we are supposed to share and how to share it with others.

This whole forum site wide not just us is developing day to day and there seems to be no end in site of all the policy changes that are taking place all the time. In fact that has pretty much taken precedent for a lot of people instead of thinking how we can advance Christ better. It has become instead a raging battle of this group against that group. IE the WWMC vs Conservatives forum battle thread....

IE All the polls about changing policies

IE All the wikis about protocols on how to change this and that.....

Those are political in nature instead of Christ driven in nature.

Just my opinion anyway or at least what I am taking away from his post

Lovingly In Christ
Debi

This is pretty much what I have been experiencing. Some of the threads were actually referring to "Conservative Christians' " threads, especially the poll about the issue. Many of the threads were more "internet politics" more than about Christ. Many of us didn't have the patience of Erwin's actions. Many of us were rushing into conclusions as I was reminded in Colossians 3:12-13 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. We often "quick to judge", Proverbs 29:20 Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

I was trying to bring the biblical perspective of the changes while I was being "rebuked for not seeing what they are seeing." The right perspective is to understand that in the trouble of life this is part of it trying to discern what God is doing in the trouble of it. James says count it all joy when you fall into various trials caused trials have a perfecting work. We didn't take the time to allow Erwin to do what he needed to do. God knows how to get results using people like Erwin and us. (Rom. 5:3-4). “Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect (mature) and complete, lacking in nothing” (Jam. 1:3-4).

I did not always agree with Erwin however, I am putting my trust in God more than I am trusting in Erwin and this forum. We have put ourselves in a position that we thought we were fighting for God, and in a situation like that, we forget that the outcome has already been decided by God. I have left churches when they change their doctrines I do not agree with and what Erwin did didn't fall under this criteria (in my own opinion). I am here to share my faith, my beliefs and allowing God do the rest. Who cares about the "name". God is not limited to "names".

 

[MrJim]

This is pretty much what I have been experiencing. Some of the threads were actually referring to "Conservative Christians' " threads, especially the poll about the issue. Many of the threads were more "internet politics" more than about Christ. Many of us didn't have the patience of Erwin's actions. Many of us were rushing into conclusions as I was reminded in Colossians 3:12-13 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. We often "quick to judge", Proverbs 29:20 Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

I was trying to bring the biblical perspective of the changes while I was being "rebuked for not seeing what they are seeing." The right perspective is to understand that in the trouble of life this is part of it trying to discern what God is doing in the trouble of it. James says count it all joy when you fall into various trials caused trials have a perfecting work. We didn't take the time to allow Erwin to do what he needed to do. God knows how to get results using people like Erwin and us. (Rom. 5:3-4). “Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect (mature) and complete, lacking in nothing” (Jam. 1:3-4).

I did not always agree with Erwin however, I am putting my trust in God more than I am trusting in Erwin and this forum. We have put ourselves in a position that we thought we were fighting for God, and in a situation like that, we forget that the outcome has already been decided by God. I have left churches when they change their doctrines I do not agree with and what Erwin did didn't fall under this criteria (in my own opinion). I am here to share my faith, my beliefs and allowing God do the rest. Who cares about the "name". God is not limited to "names".

I can see where you're at. I was one of the vociferous ones on the 777 changes, and I think I might still have a quote recorded over at IIDB or Uber (can't remember which). I learned my lesson, partly from you, on over reacting. So when the name change came across I didn't even get the least bit bent over it. I can see now where things can become (dare I say it) idolatrous in nature, and the act of defending something becomes more important that anything else, even if it may not be the right way to handle it.

But, I'm not going to charge my mates here for their indiscrepancies, neither am I going to break fellowship (though during that first day of the name change I came mighty mighty close~so ashamed and embarrassed of the reactions).

Consider that maybe breaking away might not be the best way to communicate...

...also there are a couple of new smilies so I'm going to use them here, since I've no clue what they mean

 

[JimfromOhio]

I can see where you're at. I was one of the vociferous ones on the 777 changes, and I think I might still have a quote recorded over at IIDB or Uber (can't remember which). I learned my lesson, partly from you, on over reacting. So when the name change came across I didn't even get the least bit bent over it. I can see now where things can become (dare I say it) idolatrous in nature, and the act of defending something becomes more important that anything else, even if it may not be the right way to handle it.

But, I'm not going to charge my mates here for their indiscrepancies, neither am I going to break fellowship (though during that first day of the name change I came mighty mighty close~so ashamed and embarrassed of the reactions).

Consider that maybe breaking away might not be the best way to communicate...

...also there are a couple of new smilies so I'm going to use them here, since I've no clue what they mean

Thank you for your post and I also have learned from you over time in this forum. I am not perfect either and still make mistakes as well.

I'm not going to charge my mates here for their indiscrepancies, neither am I going to break fellowship

Consider that maybe breaking away might not be the best way to communicate...

You do have a point there. You are making me re-consider my decision that I am to stay because biblically, as a community, unity and love reminds me of this verse: "That if we have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make our joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose." (Philippians 2:1-2).

We can move on and enjoy the fellowship here (which I have missed).

In Christ,
Jim

 

[GreenMunchkin]

Really glad to hear it

Welcome back, Jim

 

[ScooterPie]

Jim,

I'm a newbie and don't know you, nor you me, but I read some of your posts and was saddened to read that you were leaving. I'm glad to hear you're sticking around.

I think you have some insight from which we can all benefit.

Blessings.

Scooter

 

[Lisa0315]

Jim's staying!!!!

Lisa

 

[Criada]

Hooray!!

God bless you, brother.

 

[Debi1967]

This is pretty much what I have been experiencing. Some of the threads were actually referring to "Conservative Christians' " threads, especially the poll about the issue. Many of the threads were more "internet politics" more than about Christ. Many of us didn't have the patience of Erwin's actions. Many of us were rushing into conclusions as I was reminded in Colossians 3:12-13 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. We often "quick to judge", Proverbs 29:20 Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

I was trying to bring the biblical perspective of the changes while I was being "rebuked for not seeing what they are seeing." The right perspective is to understand that in the trouble of life this is part of it trying to discern what God is doing in the trouble of it. James says count it all joy when you fall into various trials caused trials have a perfecting work. We didn't take the time to allow Erwin to do what he needed to do. God knows how to get results using people like Erwin and us. (Rom. 5:3-4). “Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect (mature) and complete, lacking in nothing” (Jam. 1:3-4).

I did not always agree with Erwin however, I am putting my trust in God more than I am trusting in Erwin and this forum. We have put ourselves in a position that we thought we were fighting for God, and in a situation like that, we forget that the outcome has already been decided by God. I have left churches when they change their doctrines I do not agree with and what Erwin did didn't fall under this criteria (in my own opinion). I am here to share my faith, my beliefs and allowing God do the rest. Who cares about the "name". God is not limited to "names".

Jim I am glad you are back .... your posts and advice over the time I have been here with you even before these reforms has been pivotal to me in so many ways I cannot tell you. You truly are a Godly man.... Please continue with us here as the sinners we may be, and every once in awhile give us that shot we need to remember that all things are done in the Name of Christ....

Lovingly In Christ
Debi

 

[~*Lady Trekki*~]

I'm very glad you've changed your mind Jim. We need your wisdom and instruction!

 

[£amb]

JimfromOhio...I'm really glad you're sticking around...

You have much wisdom in your posts and really appreciate the thought you put into them.

 

[Tangeloper]

This is pretty much what I have been experiencing. Some of the threads were actually referring to "Conservative Christians' " threads, especially the poll about the issue. Many of the threads were more "internet politics" more than about Christ. Many of us didn't have the patience of Erwin's actions. Many of us were rushing into conclusions as I was reminded in Colossians 3:12-13 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. We often "quick to judge", Proverbs 29:20 Do you see a man who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

I was trying to bring the biblical perspective of the changes while I was being "rebuked for not seeing what they are seeing." The right perspective is to understand that in the trouble of life this is part of it trying to discern what God is doing in the trouble of it. James says count it all joy when you fall into various trials caused trials have a perfecting work. We didn't take the time to allow Erwin to do what he needed to do. God knows how to get results using people like Erwin and us. (Rom. 5:3-4). “Knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect (mature) and complete, lacking in nothing” (Jam. 1:3-4).

I did not always agree with Erwin however, I am putting my trust in God more than I am trusting in Erwin and this forum. We have put ourselves in a position that we thought we were fighting for God, and in a situation like that, we forget that the outcome has already been decided by God. I have left churches when they change their doctrines I do not agree with and what Erwin did didn't fall under this criteria (in my own opinion). I am here to share my faith, my beliefs and allowing God do the rest. Who cares about the "name". God is not limited to "names".

Very wise words in your post JimfromOhio, thank you! And, I'm glad you've decided to stick around. I enjoy reading, and learning from your posts!

 

[ContentInHim]

I'm so very glad you're staying, Jim!

 

[Izdaari Eristikon]

Great to have you back, Jim!

For my part, I also find all the internal politics stuff distasteful, though I don't mind the actual politics, i.e. the public policy stuff. That may be because I've always been a political junkie and mostly an activist, though my political conservatism is definitely of the libertarian sort, in the tradition of the late great Barry Goldwater.

God's Kingdom is not of this world, but though as Christians we are in the world and not of it, we are still in it and what happens in it is relevant to our daily lives, so IMO it behooves us to take an interest and not be totally aloof from it. At the same time, our best impact I think comes on the individual level, by what we teach our kids and by the example we set. When people see our confidence, joy and love, and wonder how we can be that way and want to get what we have, we're doing it right.

 

[JimfromOhio]

Thank you everyone and have a GREAT day.

Jim