Liberal Theology

[Crazy Liz]

When CF was previously segregated between "Christian" and "non-Christian," there was a forum called Liberal Theology, which was outside the CO area, where Christians and non-Christians could engage in theology discussions together. When the barrier between CO and open forums came down, these forums were consolidated into the Theology area.

Now that "non-Christians" are no longer allowed to post in the Theology forums, could CF create a Liberal Theology forum again?

 

[Texas Lynn]

I think this would be an excellent idea and would address the needs of many of the members. Many of us would want it; there are no good reasons to oppose it.

If such is created can we make it so anyone who posts need not pass some sort of litmus test? Thank you.

 

[Moriah_Conquering_Wind]

Would still like to see a forum for discussion of Universal Reconciliation. Not necessarily "unitarian" universalism but the idea that Christ's sacrifice has reconciled all to God and that God's will -- for all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth -- shall indeed prevail (and indeed this may explain why He "tarries" on the parousia).

Lots to explore there, enough to fill its own subforum rather than getting lost in "Unorthodox Theology" with a zillion other things, SOME being things Reconciliationists ourselves would regard as heresy!

 

[Letalis]

In the past, there was a rule prohibiting discussion of certain controversial topics. I.e. universal reconciliation, Annihilationism, etc. For this reason Erwin created Liberal Theology for the discussion of these topics, which were otherwise prohibited.

However, these topics can be discussed anywhere now. For what reason would you want a separate forum?

 

[Crazy Liz]

In the past, there was a rule prohibiting discussion of certain controversial topics. I.e. universal reconciliation, Annihilationism, etc. For this reason Erwin created Liberal Theology for the discussion of these topics, which were otherwise prohibited.

However, these topics can be discussed anywhere now. For what reason would you want a separate forum?

The Liberal Theology forum existed before the rules about controversial topics were made. It was a place where both Christians and non-Christians could discuss Theology. When non-Christians were allowed to post in the Theology section, it was merged into the Theology forums because it seemed to be duplicative. Now that non-Christians are banned from the Theology forums, there is again a need for this kind of forum. I have already reported several threads I started in the Theology section that have non-Christian participants. I would like those threads to be moved somewhere that would allow the discussion to continue, and not have the posts by non-Christians deleted.

Are you saying Non-Christians and Christians can discuss Theology anywhere except the Theology forums? Like maybe we could pick someplace like Blessings Exchange for such discussions?

 

[Texas Lynn]

In the past, there was a rule prohibiting discussion of certain controversial topics. I.e. universal reconciliation, Annihilationism, etc. For this reason Erwin created Liberal Theology for the discussion of these topics, which were otherwise prohibited.

However, these topics can be discussed anywhere now. For what reason would you want a separate forum?

Recent hard-handed staff pronouncements from upon high have left liberal Christians disenfranchised. We had this designated area previously and obtained much validation from it. I forget the exact circumstances in which it was removed but it would certainly seem a kind thing to do, though, it is quite apparent many on the fundamentalist-dominated staff and not kindly disposed toward liberal Christians at all.

Practically, opening it up would make good sense even for those who hate us; if we were there, we wouldn't be elsewhere at the same time.

 

[Moriah_Conquering_Wind]

In the past, there was a rule prohibiting discussion of certain controversial topics. I.e. universal reconciliation, Annihilationism, etc. For this reason Erwin created Liberal Theology for the discussion of these topics, which were otherwise prohibited.

However, these topics can be discussed anywhere now. For what reason would you want a separate forum?

Letalis, bes this true? This bes first it ever hears about this.
So universal reconciliation can be discussed anywhere, then, and does not have to be confined to unorthodox theology? COOL!!! That being the case can we please get a written clarification that "discuss anywhere" also includes can be discussed from an advocating POV and not just bes limited to the POV that would speak against it? Just trying to figure out if this bes good news or a trick. You surely understand. Thanksies.

 

[Crazy Liz]

*bump*

Since Letalis' answer did not address the reasons given for requesting a LT forum, could we have some response to the follow-up questions in this thread and here?

Thank you.

 

[Texas Lynn]

Since no one has articulated any reason not to it would seem the appropriate course of action would be institute such a forum. However, I am not naive enough to believe such a reasonable thing as that will occur. It would be good if someone in power who has a reason not to could post it though so it could be discussed.

 

[ProfessorMom]

I am not naive enough to believe such a reasonable thing as that will occur.

You know, the way to get me to listen to ideas about a forum is not with disparaging remarks.

And another thing.

I thought the idea might have some merit but give it a little time, please. I just now noticed the thread. I seldom create a forum on first suggestion. Some need more discussion.

Can we dispense with remarks outside of the intent and discussion of this particular request, please.

 

[Moriah_Conquering_Wind]

Hey Sylvia
Remember daimonizomai? It misses you.
It makes question to Letalis above. Can you answer that? It would appreciate so much. Thank you Friend.

 

[ProfessorMom]

...could CF create a Liberal Theology forum again?

I don't remember the Liberal Theology forum, but let me see if it's archived. I'd like to continue to discuss the idea.

 

[ProfessorMom]

Letalis, bes this true? This bes first it ever hears about this.
So universal reconciliation can be discussed anywhere, then, and does not have to be confined to unorthodox theology? COOL!!! That being the case can we please get a written clarification that "discuss anywhere" also includes can be discussed from an advocating POV and not just bes limited to the POV that would speak against it? Just trying to figure out if this bes good news or a trick. You surely understand. Thanksies.

Let me check on this so I don't give you a wrong answer. but, I need to get some things done in my home, I'm sorry, but I will return and give you a solid answer. Will you give me until tomorrow to find the answer to your questions, Moriah?

 

[Crazy Liz]

I don't remember the Liberal Theology forum, but let me see if it's archived. I'd like to continue to discuss the idea.

It's not archived. Before 777, there were 2 Theology forums in the Debate section. Liberal Theology was open to everybody, and Unorthodox Theology was open to Nicene & non-Nicene Christians (including Unitarians, Oneness Pentecostals, Mormons, JWs, etc.). After 777, the Debate forums were distributed among the other sections. UT was moved into the Theology section. LT was merged into UT or some threads merged into UT and some into GT.

If you look in the current UT forum, you will find the sticky thread Ye Olde Ice Cream Parlour. That was the LT cafe thread, but hasn't been active since the move. LT was a very active forum before 777, and I think there is a need for such a forum again, now that the other Theology forums have been closed to non-Christians. If you make a new LT forum, I'm sure moving YOICP there would be appreciated.

 

[Moriah_Conquering_Wind]

Let me check on this so I don't give you a wrong answer. but, I need to get some things done in my home, I'm sorry, but I will return and give you a solid answer. Will you give me until tomorrow to find the answer to your questions, Moriah?

Of course Friend.

 

[Mickeyk72]

Are you saying Non-Christians and Christians can discuss Theology anywhere except the Theology forums? Like maybe we could pick someplace like Blessings Exchange for such discussions?

Well it would definately give the Relaxation mods something to do.
I'm just teasing of course, I think that Theology should stay in theology.

 

[Crazy Liz]

Well it would definately give the Relaxation mods something to do.
I'm just teasing of course, I think that Theology should stay in theology.

Wouldn't that mean non-Christians could never discuss theology?

Because non-Christians are no longer allowed in the Theology forums.

 

[ProfessorMom]

If it were resurrected, where would you like to see a Liberal Theology forum?

 

[ProfessorMom]

Letalis, bes this true? This bes first it ever hears about this.
So universal reconciliation can be discussed anywhere, then, and does not have to be confined to unorthodox theology? COOL!!! That being the case can we please get a written clarification that "discuss anywhere" also includes can be discussed from an advocating POV and not just bes limited to the POV that would speak against it? Just trying to figure out if this bes good news or a trick. You surely understand. Thanksies.

Can you answer that? It would appreciate so much. Thank you Friend.

The topic can be discussed but...rather than say anywhere, I'd have to say read the fsg's first. In other words, I don't think it would be accepted in Congregations. If you want me to get more specific as to individual forums, I'm happy to. I can read the various fsg's and get back here later today.

 

[Crazy Liz]

If it were resurrected, where would you like to see a Liberal Theology forum?

I don't really know. The Theology area makes sense, but their guidelines remove any post deemed inconsistent with CF's SoF, as well as prohibiting non-Christians from posting at all.

It would have to be someplace where the moderating staff would be willing to allow a lot more latitude than is allowed in the Theology forums.