Please Review: New Statement of Purpose

[Sojourner1]

We would like the feedback and input from the members of this forum on the new SoP that we have written up. Please review this new SoP and let us know if you have any questions or concerns. If you think it's great...you can let us know that as well.



Traditional Theology Forum Statement of Purpose

A forum dedicated to the respectful discussion of traditional, historic theology; liturgical practices, doctrines, dogmatics; Holy Scripture as found in the various canons of the Church; Church History, etc. If you are not a traditional Christian according to the following definition, you may not debate issues or teach against traditional Christian theology. Active promotion of views contrary to traditional, historic theology; liturgical practices, doctrines, dogmatics; Holy Scripture as found in the various canons of the Church; Church History, etc. will be considered off topic. Non-traditional Christians are welcome to post in fellowship or ask questions about traditional Christianity (no debate).


Definition of Traditional Christianity:

Traditional Christians hold to the traditional beliefs and customs of the early church that Jesus Christ established and believe they should be acknowledged and used in the development of the Church today. Traditional Christians believe that the Church and associated Tradition - especially from the Apostolic / early Church - guide us even today. These traditions include sources such as church councils and creeds, writings of the early Church Fathers, testimony of the Lives of the Saints, classic confessions of the faith, etc. Many traditional Christians believe that each Christian is involved in a movement toward God, commonly known as theosis or sanctification. Traditional Christians recognize a variety of sacraments and sacramental acts including, but not limited to; Baptism, Holy Communion (Eucharist), Confession and Absolution, Chrismation (confirmation) etc., and consider them to be additional means whereby God imparts His grace on those who have faith.

The Six Principles of the Traditional Theology Forum:

• We hold each other up, supporting each other in discussion, and keep each other true to Theological principles.
• We promise to discuss honourably and in true fairness to all, even those we disagree with; no matter our theological differences.
• We decry ad hominem arguments; we will strive to never use them nor flame in return when attacked. We will debate fairly and respectfully at all times when others engage in them.
• This is a topic driven forum to bridge open discussion for those interested in all the ways traditional theology is expressed and lived around the world. Its not meant to exclude those who don't practice traditional theology, but it is meant to be topic restrictive and non combative to traditional ideas and structure.
• If you need to prove traditional theology as unbiblical or incomplete, we respect your right to do this in the General Theology forum and not in this topical forum. This is a place to explore within the defined topic not debate against it.
• We also help educate each other, to ensure we ourselves stay true to and better defend orthodox, timeless Christianity.
• We include all who wish to join, who can follow these stipulations.

Traditional Theology Forum Guidelines:

• Those who post here should show civility, courtesy, and mutual respect towards one another irrespective of jurisdiction or churchmanship.
• Do not state or imply that another poster who has identified himself or herself as traditional Christian, is not in reality truly a traditional Christian because of belief, practice, or their affiliation with any particular denomination.
• Discuss and debate specific topics from your own traditional theological viewpoint, allowing others to do likewise without fear of judgment and condemnation.
• Do not get sidetracked into debating whether or not another poster's beliefs are right or wrong according to your traditional theological background or viewpoint.
• When making a statement about traditional theological beliefs, please consider prefacing your statement with "some traditional Christians believe" or "my tradition believes".
• Likewise, do not "tell" others what their own church teaches and believes. It is encouraged to ask questions about those teachings and beliefs and as well be prepared to answer questions about your own.

When you Disagree:

Posters who participate in the Traditional Theology forum are expected to treat one another with courtesy and respect at all times, ESPECIALLY when you disagree with each other.

• When you disagree, address the content of the post and not the poster.
• When you disagree with someone's position, you should post evidence and supporting statements for your position. This policy, sometimes referred to as "X means Y because of Z", must be followed especially when posting claims that are widely considered to be controversial.
• When you disagree and you find yourself becoming frustrated and angry, step away from the computer and give yourself time to cool down.
• Always proofread your post before hitting the "Reply" button to make sure you have responded with courtesy and respect.

Personal Flames and Goads:

When discussing and debating some topics, please be aware that your personal beliefs may at times be challenged, criticized or questioned. Don't become defensive or personally offended. Posters themselves, however, are never to be personally flamed. Flaming is defined as an attack on another person's character, as opposed to their arguments or beliefs. Please review our moderation protocol regarding violations of flaming or goading.

​

Important: If staff see on-going spite reporting (reporting non-violations hoping they will get actioned), staff will address this in the Member Support Center with the reporter.

 

[All4Christ]

We would like the feedback and input from the members of this forum on the new SoP that we have written up. Please review this new SoP and let us know if you have any questions or concerns. If you think it's great...you can let us know that as well.



Traditional Theology Forum Statement of Purpose

A forum dedicated to the respectful discussion of traditional, historic theology; liturgical practices, doctrines, dogmatics; Holy Scripture as found in the various canons of the Church; Church History, etc. If you are not a traditional Christian according to the following definition, you may not debate issues or teach against traditional Christian theology. Active promotion of views contrary to traditional, historic theology; liturgical practices, doctrines, dogmatics; Holy Scripture as found in the various canons of the Church; Church History, etc. will be considered off topic. Non-traditional Christians are welcome to post in fellowship or ask questions about traditional Christianity (no debate).


Definition of Traditional Christianity:

Traditional Christians hold to the traditional beliefs and customs of the early church that Jesus Christ established and believe they should be acknowledged and used in the development of the Church today. Traditional Christians believe that the Church and associated Tradition - especially from the Apostolic / early Church - guide us even today. These traditions include sources such as church councils and creeds, writings of the early Church Fathers, testimony of the Lives of the Saints, etc. Many traditional Christians believe that each Christian is involved in a movement toward God, commonly known as theosis or sanctification. Traditional Christians recognize a variety of sacraments and sacramental acts including, but not limited to; Baptism, Holy Communion (Eucharist), Confession and Absolution, Chrismation (confirmation) etc., and consider them to be additional means whereby God imparts His grace on those who have faith.

The Six Principles of the Traditional Theology Forum:

• We hold each other up, supporting each other in discussion, and keep each other true to Theological principles.
• We promise to discuss honorably and in true fairness to all, even those we disagree with; no matter our theological differences.
• We decry ad hominem arguments; we will strive to never use them nor flame in return when attacked. We will debate fairly and respectfully at all times when others engage in them.
• This is a topic driven forum to bridge open discussion for those interested in all the ways traditional theology is expressed and lived around the world. Its not meant to exclude those who don't practice traditional theology, but it is meant to be topic restrictive and non combative to traditional ideas and structure.
• If you need to prove traditional theology as unbiblical or incomplete, we respect your right to do this in the General Theology forum and not in this topical forum. This is a place to explore with in the defined topic not debate against it.
• We also help educate each other, to ensure we ourselves stay true to and better defend orthodox, timeless Christianity.
• We include all who wish to join, who can follow these stipulations.

Traditional Theology Forum Guidelines:

• Those who post here should show civility, courtesy, and mutual respect towards one another irrespective of jurisdiction or churchmanship.
• Do not state or imply that another poster who has identified himself or herself as traditional Christian, is not in reality truly a traditional Christian because of belief, practice, or their affiliation with any particular denomination.
• Discuss and debate specific topics from your own traditional theological viewpoint, allowing others to do likewise without fear of judgment and condemnation.
• Do not get sidetracked into debating whether or not another poster's beliefs are right or wrong according to your traditional theological background or viewpoint.
• When making a statement about traditional theological beliefs, please consider prefacing your statement with "some traditional Christians believe" or "my tradition believes".
• Likewise, do not "tell" others what their own church teaches and believes. It is encouraged to ask questions about those teachings and beliefs and as well be prepared to answer questions about your own.

When you Disagree:

Posters who participate in the Traditional Theology forum are expected to treat one another with courtesy and respect at all times, ESPECIALLY when you disagree with each other.

• When you disagree, address the content of the post and not the poster.
• When you disagree with someone's position, you should post evidence and supporting statements for your position. This policy, sometimes referred to as "X means Y because of Z", must be followed especially when posting claims that are widely considered to be controversial.
• When you disagree and you find yourself becoming frustrated and angry, step away from the computer and give yourself time to cool down.
• Always proofread your post before hitting the "Reply" button to make sure you have responded with courtesy and respect.

Personal Flames and Goads:

When discussing and debating some topics, please be aware that your personal beliefs may at times be challenged, criticized or questioned. Don't become defensive or personally offended. Posters themselves, however, are never to be personally flamed. Flaming is defined as an attack on another person's character, as opposed to their arguments or beliefs. Please review our moderation protocol regarding violations of flaming or goading.

​

Important: If staff see on-going spite reporting (reporting non-violations hoping they will get actioned), staff will address this in the Member Service Center with the reporter.

I think that this looks like a good clarification to the current SoP.

 

[Mary of Bethany]

I think that this looks like a good clarification to the current SoP.

I agree.

 

[seeking.IAM]

It looks good to me.

 

[mark46]

It looks good to me.

 

[Tigger45]

Sounds good to me.

 

[Anhelyna]

's fine by me except for one part - yes I know - I'm very picky at times

• We promise to discuss honorably and in true fairness to all, even those we disagree with; no matter our theological differences.

picky me would prefer to see :-

• We promise to discuss honourably and in true fairness to all, even those with whom we disagree ; no matter our theological differences.

 

[All4Christ]

's fine by me except for one part - yes I know - I'm very picky at times

picky me would prefer to see :-

• We promise to discuss honourably and in true fairness to all, even those with whom we disagree ; no matter our theological differences.

[emoji4] honorably vs honourably = British English vs American English

I'm fine with either style, though we should be consistent across the entire SoP.

That said, you are right about prepositions at the end of sentences. I think in informal settings, people tend to write the way they speak - though it isn't proper grammar in English, especially in formal writing.

 

[All4Christ]

We would like the feedback and input from the members of this forum on the new SoP that we have written up. Please review this new SoP and let us know if you have any questions or concerns. If you think it's great...you can let us know that as well.



Traditional Theology Forum Statement of Purpose

A forum dedicated to the respectful discussion of traditional, historic theology; liturgical practices, doctrines, dogmatics; Holy Scripture as found in the various canons of the Church; Church History, etc. If you are not a traditional Christian according to the following definition, you may not debate issues or teach against traditional Christian theology. Active promotion of views contrary to traditional, historic theology; liturgical practices, doctrines, dogmatics; Holy Scripture as found in the various canons of the Church; Church History, etc. will be considered off topic. Non-traditional Christians are welcome to post in fellowship or ask questions about traditional Christianity (no debate).


Definition of Traditional Christianity:

Traditional Christians hold to the traditional beliefs and customs of the early church that Jesus Christ established and believe they should be acknowledged and used in the development of the Church today. Traditional Christians believe that the Church and associated Tradition - especially from the Apostolic / early Church - guide us even today. These traditions include sources such as church councils and creeds, writings of the early Church Fathers, testimony of the Lives of the Saints, etc. Many traditional Christians believe that each Christian is involved in a movement toward God, commonly known as theosis or sanctification. Traditional Christians recognize a variety of sacraments and sacramental acts including, but not limited to; Baptism, Holy Communion (Eucharist), Confession and Absolution, Chrismation (confirmation) etc., and consider them to be additional means whereby God imparts His grace on those who have faith.

The Six Principles of the Traditional Theology Forum:

• We hold each other up, supporting each other in discussion, and keep each other true to Theological principles.
• We promise to discuss honorably and in true fairness to all, even those we disagree with; no matter our theological differences.
• We decry ad hominem arguments; we will strive to never use them nor flame in return when attacked. We will debate fairly and respectfully at all times when others engage in them.
• This is a topic driven forum to bridge open discussion for those interested in all the ways traditional theology is expressed and lived around the world. Its not meant to exclude those who don't practice traditional theology, but it is meant to be topic restrictive and non combative to traditional ideas and structure.
• If you need to prove traditional theology as unbiblical or incomplete, we respect your right to do this in the General Theology forum and not in this topical forum. This is a place to explore with in the defined topic not debate against it.
• We also help educate each other, to ensure we ourselves stay true to and better defend orthodox, timeless Christianity.
• We include all who wish to join, who can follow these stipulations.

Traditional Theology Forum Guidelines:

• Those who post here should show civility, courtesy, and mutual respect towards one another irrespective of jurisdiction or churchmanship.
• Do not state or imply that another poster who has identified himself or herself as traditional Christian, is not in reality truly a traditional Christian because of belief, practice, or their affiliation with any particular denomination.
• Discuss and debate specific topics from your own traditional theological viewpoint, allowing others to do likewise without fear of judgment and condemnation.
• Do not get sidetracked into debating whether or not another poster's beliefs are right or wrong according to your traditional theological background or viewpoint.
• When making a statement about traditional theological beliefs, please consider prefacing your statement with "some traditional Christians believe" or "my tradition believes".
• Likewise, do not "tell" others what their own church teaches and believes. It is encouraged to ask questions about those teachings and beliefs and as well be prepared to answer questions about your own.

When you Disagree:

Posters who participate in the Traditional Theology forum are expected to treat one another with courtesy and respect at all times, ESPECIALLY when you disagree with each other.

• When you disagree, address the content of the post and not the poster.
• When you disagree with someone's position, you should post evidence and supporting statements for your position. This policy, sometimes referred to as "X means Y because of Z", must be followed especially when posting claims that are widely considered to be controversial.
• When you disagree and you find yourself becoming frustrated and angry, step away from the computer and give yourself time to cool down.
• Always proofread your post before hitting the "Reply" button to make sure you have responded with courtesy and respect.

Personal Flames and Goads:

When discussing and debating some topics, please be aware that your personal beliefs may at times be challenged, criticized or questioned. Don't become defensive or personally offended. Posters themselves, however, are never to be personally flamed. Flaming is defined as an attack on another person's character, as opposed to their arguments or beliefs. Please review our moderation protocol regarding violations of flaming or goading.

​

Important: If staff see on-going spite reporting (reporting non-violations hoping they will get actioned), staff will address this in the Member Service Center with the reporter.

Regarding grammar - under the Six Principles section, "with in" (bolded) should be spelled "within".

 

[Anhelyna]

[emoji4] honorably vs honourably = British English vs American English

I'm fine with either style, though we should be consistent across the entire SoP.

That said, you are right about prepositions at the end of sentences. I think in informal settings, people tend to write the way they speak - though it isn't proper grammar in English, especially in formal writing.

Wasn't worried about honourably - I'm used to American v UK usage

I often find that the sentence ending with a preposition, when read aloud just sounds ugly - unfinished even at times. I told you I was picky

 

[All4Christ]

Wasn't worried about honourably - I'm used to American v UK usage

I often find that the sentence ending with a preposition, when read aloud just sounds ugly - unfinished even at times. I told you I was picky

No worries - I do agree with you, especially for something like the SoP. [emoji846]

 

[topcare]

Its not meant to exclude those who don't practice traditional theology, but it is meant to be topic restrictive and non combative to traditional ideas and structure.

It's okay though this part, I do wish we would restrict the forum to just Traditional Christians.

 

[Cappadocious]

Good luck enforcing that.

 

[hedrick]

Mainstream Protestants don't typically recognize 7 sacraments. The original concept included mainstream Protestants. It's not so clear that this definition does.

 

[All4Christ]

Mainstream Protestants don't typically recognize 7 sacraments. The original concept included mainstream Protestants. It's not so clear that this definition does.

Any suggestions on rewording it?

 

[MarkRohfrietsch]

It's okay though this part, I do wish we would restrict the forum to just Traditional Christians.

This is not going to happen, we need a place where non-trditional Christians who are curious or interested in what and why Traditional Christians are who we are and do what we do; but this is not a place where not TT Christians can come to slam those who are.

Mainstream Protestants don't typically recognize 7 sacraments. The original concept included mainstream Protestants. It's not so clear that this definition does.

Definition of Traditional Christianity:

Traditional Christians hold to the traditional beliefs and customs of the early church that Jesus Christ established and believe they should be acknowledged and used in the development of the Church today. Traditional Christians believe that the Church and associated Tradition - especially from the Apostolic / early Church - guide us even today. These traditions include sources such as church councils and creeds, writings of the early Church Fathers, testimony of the Lives of the Saints, etc. Many traditional Christians believe that each Christian is involved in a movement toward God, commonly known as theosis or sanctification. Traditional Christians recognize a variety of sacraments and sacramental acts including, but not limited to; Baptism, Holy Communion (Eucharist), Confession and Absolution, Chrismation (confirmation) etc., and consider them to be additional means whereby God imparts His grace on those who have faith.
​

There is no mention of number because as you have stated heterick, there are different definitions of the use of the terms "Sacrament". For example; we Lutherans hold two or three as we define a Sacrament; yet those things that Catholics, Orthodox and even Anglicans define as Sacraments are all practiced in the Lutheran Church. Some protestant Churches call things like baptism and Communion "ordinances" rather than sacraments. This definition is broad enough to encompass us all.

 

[topcare]

This is not going to happen, we need a place where non-trditional Christians who are curious or interested in what and why Traditional Christians are who we are and do what we do; but this is not a place where not TT Christians can come to slam those who are.

I know but it would be nice to have our own place away form the others

 

[MarkRohfrietsch]

I know but it would be nice to have our own place away form the others

I won't rule it out. Do you remember the old "Apostolic Christian" Forum that we merged into here? It was not very active. We also have our Congregational Forums too.

If we take ownership of this forum, are vigilant and proactive in threads, and report when we need to; this will continue to be a safe, pleasant, enlightening and edifying place to be.

 

[topcare]

We also have our Congregational Forums too.

Not me

 

[hedrick]

Perhaps rather than mentioning just the early church you could say "and other historical sources of Christian theology and practice." And in "These traditions include sources such as church councils and creeds, writings of the early Church Fathers, testimony of the Lives of the Saints, etc." you might add "classic confessions of the faith."

That's for traditional Orotestants. I need to think more about mainline.