Internet Pastors

[JM]

Over the years I have been contacted by people claiming to be my "brother" in Christ. Normally they start by pretending to have similar beliefs but soon try to exert some sway over what I believe the scriptures to teach. They offer this unsolicited advice from a position of assumed authority. When I reject these offers of correction they soon come to the conclusion that, because we disagree, I am probably not a believer at all.

Has this happened to you?

Should I take advice from random strangers?

 

[bsd058]

Never. lol. It's worse than taking candy from a stranger. They just want disciples. Like wolves, they don't spare the flock. You should already be under a pastor/elder if you're part of a congregation, which we are commanded to be. (Heb 10:25)

If a person gets offended because you want to search the Scriptures deeper, are they really trying to lead you to Christ?

Also, if they are offended that you don't agree with them, why aren't they considering that their view could be wrong instead of the other way around?

We're not commanded to convert people. We're commanded to preach. The Boreans were more noble.

Be careful out there. Lots of people want our loyalty. Only one deserves it, though.

Anyone in particular you have in mind?


This has happened to everyone. Lots of crazies out there.

 

[gord44]

Also, if they are offended that you don't agree with them, why aren't they considering that their view is wrong instead of the other way around?

Or maybe you should consider that your view is wrong instead of theirs. I'm just playing the devils advocate. But the door swings both ways. Most people think they are right in their beliefs and others are wrong. It's human nature. Some at least can accept the other person as a brother, even if their beliefs don't jive. Of course there is those who unfortunately will discount the other completely when they don't agree(as JM's example shows above).

 

[bsd058]

Or maybe you should consider that your view is wrong instead of theirs.

That's my point.

We're so qui9ck to judge someone else. We should be examining ourselves and a person who doesn't examine themselves is in a dangerous spot.

 

[JM]

I had to blog it here: The Pride of Man « Feileadh Mor

Don Fortner's words of wisdom concerning pride are very instructive.

I don't have any ONE name to give but I hope this thread will serve as a warning. Some folks are wolves in sheep's clothing and they seek to discourage you. I will take advice from someone I attend church with, brothers who have proven themselves to be brothers, but random strangers? Yeah right.

 

[gord44]

That's my point.

We're so qui9ck to judge someone else. We should be examining ourselves and a person who doesn't examine themselves is in a dangerous spot.

Indeed.

 

[bsd058]

I had to blog it here: The Pride of Man « Feileadh Mor

Don Fortner's words of wisdom concerning pride are very instructive.

I don't have any ONE name to give but I hope this thread will serve as a warning. Some folks are wolves in sheep's clothing and they seek to discourage you. I will take advice from someone I attend church with, brothers who have proven themselves to be brothers, but random strangers? Yeah right.

Good blog.

Luther's stand at Worms is an inspiration to us all who hold the Word of God in high esteem.

I'll be honest. It happened recently on here. Someone held to a certain doctrine which I felt was not accurate, and they accused me of treating the Word like someone who would try to use it to support homosexuality.

Often these people speak in ignorance, and there really is nothing to be prideful about, but they puff themselves up so they can seem up to the hard task of laboring in the word. They really just want people to follow them. That's all they care about. Just continue following Christ, and remain teachable. I trust he will lead his elect into his truth.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5P7QkHCfaI

 

[JM]

I’m open to correction and rebuke but not from complete strangers over the internet who seem more interested in promoting their own doctrine, influence and interests then Christ’s.

I take the soft rebukes and advice of twin very seriously and I have never seen him or looked him in the eye. We have become friends and I know him as a dear brother because of our relationship we have in Christ.

gord and a few others...ya'll alright to...but some sketchy advice from a stranger, no thanks.

jm

 

[Calvinist Dark Lord]

I’m open to correction and rebuke but not from complete strangers over the internet who seem more interested in promoting their own doctrine, influence and interests then Christ’s.

I take the soft rebukes and advice of twin very seriously and I have never seen him or looked him in the eye. We have become friends and I know him as a dear brother because of our relationship we have in Christ.

gord and a few others...ya'll alright to...but some sketchy advice from a stranger, no thanks.

jm

i believe that this is yet another reason why God in His Providence gave us the Local Church...and i don't mean the cult that bears that name.

 

[JM]

i believe that this is yet another reason why God in His Providence gave us the Local Church...and i don't mean the cult that bears that name.

I agree.

 

[GQ Chris]

There's many so called "Spiritual Gurus" out there. lol

Lately I have enjoyed taking my book "Kingdom of the Cults" by Walter Martin and reading it with my pint of beer at the pizza pub in Berserkeley. Paul warned us about False prophets, false jesus', and "other gospels".