The new rules for the Exclusively Christian forum

[Knight]

I realize this is not going to make everyone happy but I have discussed this issue with the other TOL owners and here is the decision we have made regarding the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Originally when we decided to create this forum we wanted a place to discuss AND debate Christian theology without unbelievers distracting the debate with mindless comments like... "so... how did all the animals fit on the ark?" or... "the Bible has been translated so many times.... bla bla bla".
:dunce:

The "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum was never intended to be a place where there would be no debate..... and excluding those who think they are Christian based on our standard of Christianity excludes too many possible participants to promote healthy debate.

Therefore...
The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

There are plenty of other forums here at TOL for debating the legitimacy of the Bible.

And unlike morality the above rules and guidelines are very SUBJECTIVE so we ask that you honor our moderators requests if your input if out of line for this particular forum.

If you have any questions regarding these new guidelines please ask them on this thread.

[One Eyed Jack]

Fair enough.

[Nineveh]

Oh good, I hope this focuses the forum :)

[Lucky]

Okie dokie.

[Sozo]

Unfortunately, I may be the only one who sees this as a step backwards, rather than forward.

I do not believe that everyone that comes here is here to debate, and there should be a sanctuary (of sort) to actually be safe from those who have no other agenda but to steal the truth from those who truly have a heart to know what that truth is.

I know that this may not be the main purpose of this site, but some people may have no other place to turn, and there are many out there who are hurting, and need to hear the hope that only those who have faith in the Jesus of the bible can offer them.

My main reason for being here, is to reach those people, and to stand firm in a presentation of the gospel that is undefiled, unperverted, and pure in it's simplicity.

That opportunity has been greatly diminished, and the cultist have won their day.

:cry:

[Vitamin J]

Originally posted by Sozo
I know that this may not be the main purpose of this site, but some people may have no other place to turn, and there are many out there who are hurting, and need to hear the hope that only those who have faith in the Jesus of the bible can offer them.

My main reason for being here, is to reach those people, and to stand firm in a presentation of the gospel that is undefiled, unperverted, and pure in it's simplicity.

That opportunity has been greatly diminished, and the cultist have won their day.

:cry: But how do we reach them if we can't talk with them?

[Knight]

Originally posted by Vitamin J

But how do we reach them if we can't talk with them? :up:

[Sozo]

Originally posted by Vitamin J

But how do we reach them if we can't talk with them?

That may be Knight's point about the use of constructive input, I don't know. But, for the most part it is the cultists who are the ones who claim Christianity, and have no desire to learn , but only to disrupt, that are our concern. Perhaps there is no way to keep them away.

[Aimiel]

I believe that this is a step in the right direction, and what TOL should be all about.

[Mateo]

Knight :D

Sozo :p



In all seriousness, it should be evident from the number of people who don't post but who do "look over our shoulders", as it were, that the exchanges between those who do post here on a regular basis form the body of an ongoing dialog amongst the body which has an effect beyond what appears onscreen and which the body would be the poorer for in it's absence. Paul was able to disagree with his brother in Christ to the point of going seperate ways and yet allowed room for said brother within the body and I am happy that TOL has seen fit to move forward in this spirit.

[brother Willi]

This place is HUGE
lots of room
keep one spot atheist free
a spot where Christian can talk to Christian

Nothin against anyone
but at atheist sites I've seen it done
atheist only room

[Duder]

Sozo said:

Unfortunately, I may be the only one who sees this as a step backwards, rather than forward.

I do not believe that everyone that comes here is here to debate, and there should be a sanctuary (of sort) to actually be safe from those who have no other agenda but to steal the truth from those who truly have a heart to know what that truth is.

I know that this may not be the main purpose of this site, but some people may have no other place to turn, and there are many out there who are hurting, and need to hear the hope that only those who have faith in the Jesus of the bible can offer them.

My main reason for being here, is to reach those people, and to stand firm in a presentation of the gospel that is undefiled, unperverted, and pure in it's simplicity.

That opportunity has been greatly diminished, and the cultist have won their day.
_________________

Yep. I think Sozo's right.

Even if I am allowed to, I would not post in the threads below this one because I am not convinced that everything in the Bible is inspired by God or that the orthodox creeds are true on every point. People will want a sanctuary where they can commune with their fellows in peace, without having to deal with people like me who are given to making comments like "orthodox Christianity is mistaken" or "maybe the Bible is wrong".

The rule that asked doubters to keep quiet was like asking them not to shout their objections in a church service. They're welcome to come and read, but should post their objections and criticisms elsewhere.

[karstkid]

Thanks, Knight!

Phew! I thought you were going to make this forum hyper-sectarian. Your "consider" requirements are excellent. Also, I think your moderators would have enough discernment to sniff out and chase out those who don't belong here.

[SOTK]

Originally posted by Sozo

Unfortunately, I may be the only one who sees this as a step backwards, rather than forward.

I do not believe that everyone that comes here is here to debate, and there should be a sanctuary (of sort) to actually be safe from those who have no other agenda but to steal the truth from those who truly have a heart to know what that truth is.

I know that this may not be the main purpose of this site, but some people may have no other place to turn, and there are many out there who are hurting, and need to hear the hope that only those who have faith in the Jesus of the bible can offer them.

My main reason for being here, is to reach those people, and to stand firm in a presentation of the gospel that is undefiled, unperverted, and pure in it's simplicity.

That opportunity has been greatly diminished, and the cultist have won their day.

:cry:

Agreed. :up:

[Tye Porter]

So I can move Beobebob's thread into here and he cannot post back? :thumb: :D

[Lighthouse]

No, Tye. I really don't think Knight would allow that. As for whose allowed to post here, I am. So I'm glad. Because I consider both things to be true.

[Nietzschean]

My question is this:
Will you then create for forum for Exclusively Non-Christian Theology?

I would think that the atheists and various non-Christian posters would enjoy a place on here where they can discuss things with a purely secular viewpoint without someone quoting the Bible constantly at them. I personally think that if you're going to do something for one group, you should do it for everyone.

That's my personal opinion anyway.

[Knight]

Originally posted by Nietzschean

My question is this:
Will you then create for forum for Exclusively Non-Christian Theology?
The answer is no.

We are not going to promote any world views that lead to eternal damnation.

Jesus is.... the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him.

We do not obscure the truth at TruthSmack.com or theologyonline.com.

[Nietzschean]

Originally posted by Knight

The answer is no.

We are not going to promote any world views that lead to eternal damnation.

Jesus is.... the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him.

We do not obscure the truth at TruthSmack.com or theologyonline.com.

M'mkay, just checking. :thumb:
Mmm, hotdog. Visualize the hotdog.

[Knight]

Originally posted by Nietzschean

M'mkay, just checking. :thumb:
Mmm, hotdog. Visualize the hotdog. :kookoo:

[Freak]

Originally posted by Knight

The answer is no.

We are not going to promote any world views that lead to eternal damnation.

Jesus is.... the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Him.

We do not obscure the truth at TruthSmack.com or theologyonline.com. :thumb: :thumb:

[OMEGA]

I think that Zakath should have his own Forum .

The EXCLUSIVELY Atheist Forum .

Of course, he may be the only one posting there.

:think:

[Nietzschean]

I'd post there, on the silliness of being an atheist. -Nod.-

[Infamous Plug]

That you Knight
This should be a step forward. Allthough I'm very new and don't know much about the forums and where they stand . But it should have one spot where people do not disagree about the relevance of the Bible, there are lots who don't argue about the basics, Such as God is a Man , i mean most people who are studing Christians all ready know these things and move over to other more difficult topics, for debate or discussion, which both provoke learning.

[temple2006]

Knight...I am really that you have abandones exclusivity.....It really is not a good learning form if only one side is able to be present.

[philosophizer]

"Abandones?" Quick! I need someone who can interpret tongues! Aimiel?

[Turbo]

Originally posted by temple 2000

It really is not a good learning form if only one side is able to be present. Uh... There were plenty of other forums where non-Christians were welcome, like General Theology. And there are certainly "different sides" within the ranks of Christians. But it just got to be a pain trying to keep the cultists and such out of the forum when they insist that they are in fact Christians.

[temple2006]

Philosoph....Shut up. I have seen spelling and grammer errors on your part. :p

Turbo..Why is it that non-orthodox are not welcome. Except for the above remark I am always polite.

[Thia]

I think this is a wonderful idea. But, since so many of us have different 'opinions' on things, why would TOL want to exclude those who don't think along their own lines? I mean, where is the debate then?

[Knight]

I think this is a wonderful idea. But, since so many of us have different 'opinions' on things, why would TOL want to exclude those who don't think along their own lines? I mean, where is the debate then?
Uh... every single other forum on TOL are for all walks of life. Can't one have a Christian focus?

Check out all the different forums to choose from....
www.theologyonline.com/forums

[Thia]

Uh... every single other forum on TOL are for all walks of life. Can't one have a Christian focus?

Check out all the different forums to choose from....
www.theologyonline.com/forums

Gee, thanks Knight for that clarification. What I meant was, if everyone agrees with everyone else on this thread, it won't be a debate, it will be a discussion. But how long will it last if everyone agrees with one another?

[Turbo]

But how long will it last if everyone agrees with one another?
I wouldn't let that one keep you up at night. Just look around. Christians debate each other all over this board. And sometimes, we don't want input from atheists and other assorted scoffers. That's what this forum is for.

[Thia]

I wouldn't let that one keep you up at night.

LOL! Thank you, dear heart. It won't.

[servantofChrist]

Hey Everybody, I have a few comments and then a question...

It was said above that this forum is for anyone to post on "who considers themselves to be Christian."

Lots and Lots of people consider themselves to be "Christian," yet many of them are diametrically opposed to each other on the same Bible doctrines/subjects (eg., homosexuality, women leaders, elders, pastors, etc.).

So my question is this:

Did the LORD leave the term "Christian" to be defined subjectively by each individual, according to what he/she thinks it means? Or, is there a God-Inspired definition of what a "Christian" is given in the Sacred Writings so everyone can conform themselves to it and thus be UNITED - NOT DIVIDED - about it?

[servantofChrist]

I would like to ask some similar questions again, except this time... just substitute the word "love" for the word "Christian"...

If we ask the question, "Do I love God?", does the answer to that lie within human opinion or Divine Authority?
WHO defines what "love" is between God and man / man and God?

[louhardt]

I just want to verify that, in this forum and all posts in this forum, are you stating that the inspired Word of God is inerrant in its original state? I see a lot of posts and other places where the Word of God is described as inspired but they omit the further belief in the inerrancy of the Word.

And if you do believe it is inerrant, what is a good way to tell if a person means that if they do not say it?

Thanks

[aikido7]

The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.I know I am judged "a left wing nut" on TOL, but I've always felt that epithet says more about the people who devised it than it says about me. And I also consider myself a Christian and the Bible to be God's inspired word. I guess we can argue all day about what is "Christian" and what "inspired word of God" means and how they play out in different times and cultural circumstances.

Traditional religion seems to be in a period of re-entrenchment, judging by recent world events. Given that, here are some questions I wrestle with:

Can a Christian be faithful to our own human experience as believers without idolizing or taking on the command systems of society--as well as the churches?

What insights can a Christian develop from our shared religious past?

Does the 300-year-old study of the non-theological Jesus help in this? Does historical context matter here--especially since the faith seems built on historical events and the meaning derived from those events?

[Chileice]

I know I am judged "a left wing nut" on TOL, but I've always felt that epithet says more about the people who devised it than it says about me. And I also consider myself a Christian and the Bible to be God's inspired word. I guess we can argue all day about what is "Christian" and what "inspired word of God" means and how they play out in different times and cultural circumstances.

Traditional religion seems to be in a period of re-entrenchment, judging by recent world events. Given that, here are some questions I wrestle with:

Can a Christian be faithful to our own human experience as believers without idolizing or taking on the command systems of society--as well as the churches?

What insights can a Christian develop from our shared religious past?

Does the 300-year-old study of the non-theological Jesus help in this? Does historical context matter here--especially since the faith seems built on historical events and the meaning derived from those events?

I find your questions quite interesting, but I wonder if this particular thread is the place to discuss them. I'm afraid people will look at the title and think... that's that old thread about changes to the thread and not realize there is a real discussion going on. Could you start a new thread to discuss these matters? Just a suggestion.

[phil121]

Knight,

Having just found theologyonline (actually come back to after a long absence), I think these rules are most fine, but let me point out a problem I have just encountered with the following rule.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

In discussing a particular topic, the issue of what you mean by inspiration comes up, and in fact it can be the major difference between 2 sides of a Christian doctrine. Therefore, it is necessary to point out that people who says they are Christians and claim to believe in Biblical inspiration can believe very different even opposite things about what those terms mean. Therefore, in house "Christian" debates can and often have to challenge the other person's belief about the Bible.

Therefore, when a thread wanders into that territory, I encourage you to let the post stand. Before I can debate someone about female ordination (where I recently posted), I have to try to understand how that person understands inspiration and truth claims. Otherwise, we simple talk past one another instead of really talking to one another.

Well thanks for listening to my ramblings,

In Christ,

Mike

For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

[Agape4Robin]

I would like to ask some similar questions again, except this time... just substitute the word "love" for the word "Christian"...

If we ask the question, "Do I love God?", does the answer to that lie within human opinion or Divine Authority?
WHO defines what "love" is between God and man / man and God?
1Jo 4:19 We love Him, because He first loved us.

Jhn 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.

Eph 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us,


2Th 2:16 Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,

This is the truth about love........
[U]1Jo 4:10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent his Son [to be] the propitiation for our sins.

[Letsargue]

I realize this is not going to make everyone happy but I have discussed this issue with the other TOL owners and here is the decision we have made regarding the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Originally when we decided to create this forum we wanted a place to discuss AND debate Christian theology without unbelievers distracting the debate with mindless comments like... "so... how did all the animals fit on the ark?" or... "the Bible has been translated so many times.... bla bla bla".
:dunce:

The "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum was never intended to be a place where there would be no debate..... and excluding those who think they are Christian based on our standard of Christianity excludes too many possible participants to promote healthy debate.

Therefore...
The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

There are plenty of other forums here at TOL for debating the legitimacy of the Bible.

And unlike morality the above rules and guidelines are very SUBJECTIVE so we ask that you honor our moderators requests if your input if out of line for this particular forum.

If you have any questions regarding these new guidelines please ask them on this thread.

---Knight---I suppose the most, have in mind what my deal is, or idea, thing; I thaught I had something there with the Platos, but no. If I may park here, I can go by your rules fine. I realy like to be left alone from insults, that goes both ways, and gets out of hand.
---May I park here with my, unorthodox faith to the rest, But I do take Just the Bible and nothing else, and can show one so. But I'll move on if you guys say so. ---Watching---Please reply.
*
-----------------Paul---
*
*
-------Thanks for your speedy reply --- Knight--
*

*

[David2]

exclusively christian_____________________________________?

i love you guys, and i 'm here for the exclusive, so fall over to" messiah returns" at philosophy and religion,_________ and let's weed out the "Exclusive Club"________. LOL

[Agape4Robin]

exclusively christian_____________________________________?

i love you guys, and i 'm here for the exclusive, so fall over to" messiah returns" at philosophy and religion,_________ and let's weed out the "Exclusive Club"________. LOL:spam:

[David2]

as i have said nicely, do not bother with verbal outbursts and slanderous comments, please dig into your heart for questions that will bring us together not seperate us. i'm not here for theology and debate about what man thinks his relationship with God is, but to deliver philosophy and express who to attain the realized state on oneness with God
That is perfect love, and what Jesus and the Holy Prophets including Paul were really trying to instill in the hearts of men/women alike.

These forums get so impersonal by shooting at each other ond offering silly unscriptuaral opinions about what he thinks, she thinks, they think. It's the business of the forum and the owners to increase readership and participation, but it 's my business to find, reach out to those who are genuine and sincere about loving and serving God.___________-Loving and serving God-

As much as you should want to know me in truth i want to have the association and know also all my good brothers/sisters in perfect truth. That is the promise of God and the prosperity that we unite and share in His glory, who made us in His likeness and wants us with Him.

Do you call this spam? i hope not!

[David2]

i'm still here, why is this thread above the line? what does that mean?

[taoist]

I flat out can't figure why any atheist would want an exclusively-atheist thread HERE on TOL. That said, this is the first time I'd seen this thread and I'm glad you relaxed the rules Knight. Come to think of it though, I can't remember ever getting chased out of one of these I'd posted a question in inadvertently. Great, so I'm now allowed to do what I'd done anyway without any complaint.

Usually, on Christian boards, I see something like the Apostle's creed used as a criterion for posting. This is a much more open standard.

[Zakath]

i'm still here, why is this thread above the line? what does that mean?
I believe that's referred to as a "sticky thread" which means it will maintain it's place at the top any listing of threads in the forum and not be bumped downward.

[Letsargue]

I would like to ask some similar questions again, except this time... just substitute the word "love" for the word "Christian"...

If we ask the question, "Do I love God?", does the answer to that lie within human opinion or Divine Authority?
WHO defines what "love" is between God and man / man and God?

--The Lord said, "If you love me KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS". -- Therefore, if you don't keep his commandments, you can't love him, but just some farce of rhetoric.

---Again, "Why say unto me, Lord Lord and do not the things I say." Therefore if you don't do the things he says, you can't call him Lord. Some body is not doing some of those things.
*
-----------------Paul---
*

[David2]

--The Lord said, "If you love me KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS". -- Therefore, if you don't keep his commandments, you can't love him, but just some farce of rhetoric.

---Again, "Why say unto me, Lord Lord and do not the things I say." Therefore if you don't do the things he says, you can't call him Lord. Some body is not doing some of those things.
*
-----------------Paul---
*
LET'S NOT ARGUE OVER THE TRUTH,
perfectly written

somewhere the message has been twisted, and it starts wth mans desire to enjoy sin life, then make a pile of excuses why he can't follow the rules.
not unlike teenagers, wanting to do all kinds of nasty, and the father says not in this house , so the kid goes off and does all he/ she wants and while still alive thinks hey i can do what i want, and look still talk to my dad and he even let's me back into the house, b/c he loves me.
That's this imperfect world,
THERE ARE NO SINNERS IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD, OTHERWISE, IT WOULD NOT BE THE KINGDOM ,_________DA!

DAVID2

.

[Bdiddie]

:thumb:

[Jujubee]

i am here to learn things from u guys who r close to perfect

[koban]

Heck J - David's the messiah, dontcha know. :rolleyes:

[Just_like_Peter]

I realize this is not going to make everyone happy but I have discussed this issue with the other TOL owners and here is the decision we have made regarding the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Originally when we decided to create this forum we wanted a place to discuss AND debate Christian theology without unbelievers distracting the debate with mindless comments like... "so... how did all the animals fit on the ark?" or... "the Bible has been translated so many times.... bla bla bla".
:dunce:

The "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum was never intended to be a place where there would be no debate..... and excluding those who think they are Christian based on our standard of Christianity excludes too many possible participants to promote healthy debate.

Therefore...
The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

There are plenty of other forums here at TOL for debating the legitimacy of the Bible.

And unlike morality the above rules and guidelines are very SUBJECTIVE so we ask that you honor our moderators requests if your input if out of line for this particular forum.

If you have any questions regarding these new guidelines please ask them on this thread.

[Just_like_Peter]

Sorry lol.

[Just_like_Peter]

Trying to get used to this chat forum style.

[Just_like_Peter]

My Qoute for the night: " How real God becomes to you, Will be a determining factor of How much you believe. How much you believe will be the determining factor of how strong you become in your walk with God and your daily life."

[Mr. 5020]

My Qoute for the night: " How real God becomes to you, Will be a determining factor of How much you believe. How much you believe will be the determining factor of how strong you become in your walk with God and your daily life."What's a Qoute? ;)

Welcome to TOL. :5020:

[dataanapar]

I don't get it, how does this change it from before?

[Catatumba]

I realize this is not going to make everyone happy but I have discussed this issue with the other TOL owners and here is the decision we have made regarding the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Originally when we decided to create this forum we wanted a place to discuss AND debate Christian theology without unbelievers distracting the debate with mindless comments like... "so... how did all the animals fit on the ark?" or... "the Bible has been translated so many times.... bla bla bla".
:dunce:

The "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum was never intended to be a place where there would be no debate..... and excluding those who think they are Christian based on our standard of Christianity excludes too many possible participants to promote healthy debate.

Therefore...
The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

There are plenty of other forums here at TOL for debating the legitimacy of the Bible.

And unlike morality the above rules and guidelines are very SUBJECTIVE so we ask that you honor our moderators requests if your input if out of line for this particular forum.

If you have any questions regarding these new guidelines please ask them on this thread.
It sounds fair; and atheist or any other soujourner should be allowed to ask Q's about the Hebrew God.
After all the Scripture if taken as if..., is incapable of error; and this infallable quality does not ref. to the book of Numbers. :dog:

[Catatumba]

I don't get it, how does this change it from before?
....'se now its open; sort of like that "Open Theism" obsession they got going on somewhere else on this site. :help:

[Catatumba]

What's a Qoute? ;)

Welcome to TOL. :5020:
A relative of a quorum; one is about text written or spoken, and the other is about how much room is left. :luigi:

[Lighthouse]

A relative of a quorum; one is about text written or spoken, and the other is about how much room is left. :luigi:
He was trying to be funny in how he told you that you misspelled "quote."

[cafinator]

I'm new here but I love debating with fellow Christians about the Bible and what it means to them and what it's all about and seeing this fourm get wattered down already kills my buzz a bit but I guess we can just weed out the boys from the men so to speak. Personaly, my favorite verse is Isaiah 13:3 since I have been called by both Jim Gall and Larry Randolph a might warrior for God and it was his way of telling me that I hadn't lost touch with Him and that I was still in the game. So what's your guyses and girls favorite verse and why?

[Jefferson]

So what's your guyses and girls favorite verse and why?One of my favorites is Ecclesiastes 9:10 - "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might"

I like that verse because of what it doesn't say. It doesn't say that God predestines what you can and cannot do in this world. In other words, the sky is the limit Christian, so dream big and act boldly.

BTW, welcome to TOL!

[Daniel50]

One of my favorites is Ecclesiastes 9:10 - "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might"



Really wonderful TRUTH.I love that verse.

[Heretic]

Unfortunately, I may be the only one who sees this as a step backwards, rather than forward.
I do not believe that everyone that comes here is here to debate, and there should be a sanctuary (of sort) to actually be safe from those who have no other agenda but to steal the truth from those who truly have a heart to know what that truth is.

I know that this may not be the main purpose of this site, but some people may have no other place to turn, and there are many out there who are hurting, and need to hear the hope that only those who have faith in the Jesus of the bible can offer them.

My main reason for being here, is to reach those people, and to stand firm in a presentation of the gospel that is undefiled, unperverted, and pure in it's simplicity.

That opportunity has been greatly diminished, and the cultist have won their day.

:cry:

THEN FORM A CONGA LINE AND MOVE TOGETHER! :guitar:

[asilentskeptic]

I am someone who was recently Christian through and through. I have occasionally posted on the Christian only forum inadvertantly, usually with support or clarification of the issue being discussed. I usually post from a Christian perspective when I post there, because that is where I am coming from. I use Bible verses and everything ;) Will this be allowed (I am currently leaning towards atheism, but am still working out what I am, and what I believe)? Should I just be more careful where I post? I have been more careful recently, because I respect the rules set down by you guys, and I respect the need for a forum where issues can be discussed and debated between Christians. If the answer is, "don't post there", then I will abide by that and be careful where I post. As my posts in that forum have usually been constructive, should I just not worry about it? I know the line has been fuzzed a little, but I would rather not cross lines that have been drawn :) Any input would be great. Thank you!

[dlrsarver]

This is just what I have been looking for, a place to discuss, debate, or just take a look at the Word of God with others who Love the Word as much as I do. There are so many other places to take on the non believers, and I visit them too, but this is truly a blessing.

[bwightma]

Why would there be any problem with these rules? It sounds like the dialog would be actually pleasant and non-combative.

[IgnatiusAntioch]

Why would there be any problem with these rules? It sounds like the dialog would be actually pleasant and non-combative.

Completely agree.

God bless all.

Your brother in Christ.

[elected4ever]

If you apply the new rules to the Exclusive Christian Forum then you might as well get red of the forum alltogether. Sozo is right. There are a lot of people who clame to be christian and are not. As a matter of fact don't even know what salvation is and it is most predomanent is the OV Theology. If one does understand salvation then the learning is so shallow that they need good teachin in order to grow. One must at least clame Christ to be a part of this forum.

[elected4ever]

Why would there be any problem with these rules? It sounds like the dialog would be actually pleasant and non-combative.You must not be a Baptist.:dizzy:

[mercyschild]

Unfortunately, I may be the only one who sees this as a step backwards, rather than forward.

I do not believe that everyone that comes here is here to debate, and there should be a sanctuary (of sort) to actually be safe from those who have no other agenda but to steal the truth from those who truly have a heart to know what that truth is.

I know that this may not be the main purpose of this site, but some people may have no other place to turn, and there are many out there who are hurting, and need to hear the hope that only those who have faith in the Jesus of the bible can offer them.

My main reason for being here, is to reach those people, and to stand firm in a presentation of the gospel that is undefiled, unperverted, and pure in it's simplicity.

That opportunity has been greatly diminished, and the cultist have won their day.

:cry:

I tend to agree with you on this being more of a 'step backwards', especially given there ARE people on here who do seem to want cause non-constructive debate, and criticize openly, even if there is no truth to what they are stating. I don't mind debate, but when it is one side just criticizing the other there is no 'fun' in that; no one should have to walk away feeling inadequate in their faith; especially those who are just brand new to the Christian world. For someone to tell them they are talking trash, is not constructive; it wounds, and doesn't speak well of the speakers own faith. We are an example, and others ARE watching; I think when there is wounding debate going on, that only confirms for those unbelievers around us that there really isn't anything special about Christians afterall.

I think if we want to minister to the 'lost' on this forum, we can gamely jump into other threads where they lurk and slowly edge our way in. Although if they post honest questions here, and they are not looking to stir trouble, I can't argue with allowing them to post them in the ECT forum-so long as they are actually ready for what they might hear!

[Bob Hill]

No posts since October 3rd, 2006?

I just ran across this thread. I think the original idea, of making it just for believers, is a great idea.

What is the present policy?

In Christ,
Bob Hill

[fool]

No posts since October 3rd, 2006?

I just ran across this thread. I think the original idea, of making it just for believers, is a great idea.

What is the present policy?

In Christ,
Bob Hill
Currently people who label themselves as something other than Christian can post in the EC forum as long as the wear a clean shirt and pretend the Bible might not be completely made up.

[Knight]

No posts since October 3rd, 2006?

I just ran across this thread. I think the original idea, of making it just for believers, is a great idea.

What is the present policy?

In Christ,
Bob HillThanks Bob....

Said as simply as possible....

This particular forum will be dedicated to debating/discussing biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

[Knight]

No posts since October 3rd, 2006?There is an entire forum for exclusively Christian threads....

Click here. (http://www.theologyonline.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=21)

This thread is the thread that explains the overall forum that's why no posts since Oct 3rd 2006. The forum itself is actually very busy.

[Bob Hill]

Knight,

Thanks

Bob

[Ps82]

Seems fair enough if people play honestly in their hearts about the rules ... but I predict this quoted part will still be hard to manage... because differentiating between the "bent" of an atheist's question will remain difficult. They are always are upfront with their questions about God and the Bible... so the trick will be determining whether they are challenging our beliefs with their minds or seeking answers from their hearts. This is almost always difficult for mortals to perceive.

Even Timothy had trouble with this ... when he was not sure how to deal with members of his new church who seemed to be stirring up trouble. Paul wrote to him that he should chastize them for a time ... see if they repent ... and then restore them ... for really only God knows what was in a person's heart.

QUOTE:Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

[asilentskeptic]

Seems fair enough if people play honestly in their hearts about the rules ... but I predict this quoted part will still be hard to manage... because differentiating between the "bent" of an atheist's question will remain difficult. They are always are upfront with their questions about God and the Bible... so the trick will be determining whether they are challenging our beliefs with their minds or seeking answers from their hearts. This is almost always difficult for mortals to perceive.

Even Timothy had trouble with this ... when he was not sure how to deal with members of his new church who seemed to be stirring up trouble. Paul wrote to him that he should chastize them for a time ... see if they repent ... and then restore them ... for really only God knows what was in a person's heart.

QUOTE:Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

I generally try to fulfill the spirit of the law and don't post in that forum. When I do, it is usually very constructive, and the answers come from my very Christian background (meaning I use bible verses and speak as if coming from a Christian perspective). If someone asks what righteousness is, I may post verses and such from a Biblical perspective :).

But, I generally try to respect the rules in place, and I hope others try to do the same! :thumb:

[Sozo]

All this good information, Bob, is getting lost on this thread. Maybe one of the moderators can move it where someone might be looking for it.

[Bob Hill]

Sozo wrote,


"All this good information, Bob, is getting lost on this thread. Maybe one of the moderators can move it where someone might be looking for it."

That's fine with me.

Bob

[Knight]

Sozo.... Bob.... I moved your last few posts to HERE (http://www.theologyonline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37126).

Thank you! :up:

[Ktoyou]

OK, I understand this now. You will still need to accept that if someone posts something about a relative topic, such as free will, where any psychologist knows all animals have freedom of will, I would wish to point this out. On the other hand, if you are contemplating a serious Biblical question about a literal meaning of text, then I respect that and will not comment. One needs to be realistic and fair; topics not strictly Christian Biblical questions, or notions should be open to debate by everyone and posted under religion.

I am a Christian Deist who believes in God, but not the strictly this-planet-human-exclusive attention that literal Biblical Christians adhere to, thus I make my case and adhere to the right not to interfere with honest posts that assume a Christian and literal Biblical perspective.

[writer]

Since i'm so much for free speech, and the benefits of free speech,
i never (except now), and never plan to, make requests or inquiries like the one i'm about to.

And i'm not protesting, nor against particularly, unbelievers, nonchristians, heretics, antichrists, atheists, etc, posting and threading on the "Christians-only" board.

Nor do i call for any censorship, editing, removal, deletion, of their threads, posts, or comments.

Except, this one time, and any future ones nearly exactly like it:

Since Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is God, for all true Christians, by definition:
would you please remove Elohyim's "Christ Jesus is NOT God" thread from this board and move it to the general religion board as quickly as you can?

That isn't a mere atheistic, heretical, or nonchristian title. Nor is it a question. Rather it states clearly and definitively the opposite of the most (nearly "only") basic fact, belief, reality, and faith that makes a Christian a Christian. Namely, that the Son of God, the one God, is God. There's only one God.

It's offensive to the max even to see that title on a, nominally, "Christians-only" board.
Even though i agree with most, and recognize, most of its Christian content, including the threader's.
I ask not for it's deletion from your service totally. But simply it's quick removal to general "Religion" board.
Or addition of question mark at title's end

Thanks so much

[Chandler]

Since Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is God, for all true Christians, by definition:
would you please remove Elohyim's "Christ Jesus is NOT God" thread from this board and move it to the general religion board as quickly as you can?

Can writer show a dictionary that defines a Christian as being someone believing that Christ Jesus is Almighty God?

[Letsargue]

Can writer show a dictionary that defines a Christian as being someone believing that Christ Jesus is Almighty God?



John1:1-4 KJV

---No Body---

[Chandler]

John1:1-4 KJV

---No Body---
Doesn't say that the Word was Almighty God. Does however say that the Word was with God.

And it is unreasonable to conclude that the Word was the same God that he was with.

But if the organisers of TOL decree that "Exclusive Christian Theology" is only for those who believe Jesus to be Almighty God then I shall abide by their wishes and never intrude here again.

[Letsargue]

Doesn't say that the Word was Almighty God. Does however say that the Word was with God.

And it is unreasonable to conclude that the Word was the same God that he was with.

But if the organisers of TOL decree that "Exclusive Christian Theology" is only for those who believe Jesus to be Almighty God then I shall abide by their wishes and never intrude here again.


Isaiah 9:6 KJV
Yes, the same one is called the Almighty God also. No one cares if you don't believe it.

I may be wrong, but I thought, if you claim to be Christian, that was the deal. And if you was anything else, you have to be some-what honest in learning, and not snotty.

I'm probably the farthest out than anyone else here, but I declare Christianity and Christ as in the New Testment 100%.

And it said: "The Word was God, and the Word was with God", and also, the Word became flesh and dwelt with them", "God with us". That's what God, and the Word of God said. Maybe not your God, but mine did say that.
Peace.

---Paul---

[Chandler]

Isaiah 9:6 KJV
Yes, the same one is called the Almighty God also. No one cares if you don't believe it.

I don't want you to think that I am short-changing you. But what you say here isn't exactly correct.

Isaiah 9:6 calls Jesus "Mighty God" but not "Almighty God".

I fully accept that Jesus is "Mighty God". He is also the "Everlasting Father" of Isaiah 9:6. However (as a Trinitarian would agree -- although Writer would disagree --) Jesus is not God the Father. Jesus is a different person, Mighty but not Almighty. Jesus said: "The Father is greater than I." (John 14:28)

[Letsargue]

I don't want you to think that I am short-changing you. But what you say here isn't exactly correct.

Isaiah 9:6 calls Jesus "Mighty God" but not "Almighty God".

I fully accept that Jesus is "Mighty God". He is also the "Everlasting Father" of Isaiah 9:6. However (as a Trinitarian would agree -- although Writer would disagree --) Jesus is not God the Father. Jesus is a different person, Mighty but not Almighty. Jesus said: "The Father is greater than I." (John 14:28)



1Corinthians 15:22-24 KJV
Christ delivers up the Kingdom to “GOD THE FATHER”, Christ does do that. – NOW:
John 14:3-4 KJV
Who delivers up the kingdom? (Christ).
And who is the receiver of the kingdom? (Christ).
The Word was with God and the Word was God, every time.
Christ delivers up the Kingdom as the Son, But in “THAT” moment of the twinkling of an eye, as fast as the lighting from the east to the west, at the last trump.
Old things have passed away, behold all things becomes NEW.
He shall be called the everlasting Father, the Mighty God, God of Gods, Lord of Lords, King of Kings. (The all mighty God, there’s none more mighty)?
Psalms 136:2 KJV
Daniel 2:47 KJV

---Paul---

[Chandler]

1Corinthians 15:22-24 KJV
Christ delivers up the Kingdom to “GOD THE FATHER”, Christ does do that. – NOW:
John 14:3-4 KJV
Who delivers up the kingdom? (Christ).
And who is the receiver of the kingdom? (Christ).

Christ delivers up the Kingdom as the Son, But in “THAT” moment of the twinkling of an eye, as fast as the lighting from the east to the west, at the last trump.
Old things have passed away, behold all things becomes NEW.

Revelation chapter 20 depicts Christ and others ruling over the earth, not for just the twinkling of an eye, but for 1,000 years (verse 4). Only at the end of this 1,000 years do we read that "death" is destroyed in the lake of fire (verse 14).

1 Corinthians 15:24-26 says: "Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death."

So: Christ is given rulership over the earth by God the Father (Psalms 2:8; Daniel 2:44). He rules for 1,000 years bringing mankind to perfection. Then Satan is given one final chance to test mankind's integrity (Revelation 20:7, 8). All on earth who become corrupted by Satan are then destroyed (fire from heaven). And Satan himself is also cast into the lake of fire. Then last of all death is destroyed.

After the dust settles it must be at this point in time that Christ finally "hands over the kingdom to God the Father".

He shall be called the everlasting Father, the Mighty God, God of Gods, Lord of Lords, King of Kings. (The all mighty God, there’s none more mighty)?
Psalms 136:2 KJV
Daniel 2:47 KJV

Both Jesus and his Father are alled "Mighty God", (El-Gibbor), but only the Father is called "Almighty" (El-Shaddai). I believe that this distinguishes the Son from the Father.
The Word was with God and the Word was God, every time.

We could start a whole new thread on John 1:1. The literal Greek reads: "God was the Word". Even Godrulz has said that the anarthrous "theos" in this phrase is qualitative. That is, it describes the Word in some way without necessarily identifying who the Word is. Because of this some translations read similar to Moffatt's: "the Logos was divine" rather than "the Logos (Word) was God".

It is entirely reasonable to suppose that John is describing some divine godlike quality about the Word. But it is not reasonable to conclude that the Word was the same God that he was with. If he was that God then he could not stand in relation to that God.

[Letsargue]

Revelation chapter 20 depicts Christ and others ruling over the earth, not for just the twinkling of an eye, but for 1,000 years (verse 4). Only at the end of this 1,000 years do we read that "death" is destroyed in the lake of fire (verse 14).

1 Corinthians 15:24-26 says: "Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death."

So: Christ is given rulership over the earth by God the Father (Psalms 2:8; Daniel 2:44). He rules for 1,000 years bringing mankind to perfection. Then Satan is given one final chance to test mankind's integrity (Revelation 20:7, 8). All on earth who become corrupted by Satan are then destroyed (fire from heaven). And Satan himself is also cast into the lake of fire. Then last of all death is destroyed.

After the dust settles it must be at this point in time that Christ finally "hands over the kingdom to God the Father".

Both Jesus and his Father are alled "Mighty God", (El-Gibbor), but only the Father is called "Almighty" (El-Shaddai). I believe that this distinguishes the Son from the Father.

We could start a whole new thread on John 1:1. The literal Greek reads: "God was the Word". Even Godrulz has said that the anarthrous "theos" in this phrase is qualitative. That is, it describes the Word in some way without necessarily identifying who the Word is. Because of this some translations read similar to Moffatt's: "the Logos was divine" rather than "the Logos (Word) was God".

It is entirely reasonable to suppose that John is describing some divine godlike quality about the Word. But it is not reasonable to conclude that the Word was the same God that he was with. If he was that God then he could not stand in relation to that God.


What all are you saying?
Are you not helping along a few scriptures to show what you believe? Why not just have Faith in them as they are?
Peace.

---Paul---

[Chandler]

What all are you saying?
Are you not helping along a few scriptures to show what you believe? Why not just have Faith in them as they are?
Peace.

---Paul---
Where have I not shown faith in the scriptures as they are?

Do you have any comments on Revelation ch. 20?

[aikido7]

The early followers of Jesus heard and saw first-hand the words and deeds of one who was clearly the incarnation of God.

Jesus was subsequently interpreted as the manifestation of the divine in the world.

And Jesus taught them that there was a divine kingdom that was accessible and that it was ruled not by Caesar but by the God celebrated by Jesus of Nazareth.

[Letsargue]

Where have I not shown faith in the scriptures as they are?

Do you have any comments on Revelation ch. 20?


What can I tell you, other than it's a vision that was given to John to enterrupt, and John Did not enterrupt it to us, He didn't even write what the seven thunders uttered to us. Unless you or I have the Gift of enterruption, of visions and dreams, I can't tell you anything beyond what it says. And this also.
Revelation 22:18-19 KJV
Why do you guys insist on doing that?
Peace.

---Paul---

[Chandler]

The early followers of Jesus heard and saw first-hand the words and deeds of one who was clearly the incarnation of God.

Jesus was subsequently interpreted as the manifestation of the divine in the world.

And Jesus taught them that there was a divine kingdom that was accessible and that it was ruled not by Caesar but by the God celebrated by Jesus of Nazareth.
Matthew 16:15, 16 reports: "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Peter didn't say: "You are Almighty God." He declared that Christ was, not God, but the Son of God.

[Chandler]

What can I tell you, other than it's a vision that was given to John to enterrupt, and John Did not enterrupt it to us, He didn't even write what the seven thunders uttered to us. Unless you or I have the Gift of enterruption, of visions and dreams, I can't tell you anything beyond what it says. And this also.
Revelation 22:18-19 KJV
Why do you guys insist on doing that?
Peace.

---Paul---
I was just hoping to know your thoughts on ch. 20. Not the seven thunders. Never mind.

[writer]

97 "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Peter didn't say: "You are Almighty God." He declared that Christ was, not God, but the Son of God.
To the contary of the misrepresenter Chandler: Peter didn't declare Christ or Son of God isn't God

92 John is describing some divine godlike quality about the Word.
The Word's not only like God, He is God

88 97 it is not reasonable to conclude that the Word was the same God that he was with.
Why not?
Because God is subject and limited to Chandler's understanding?

The root of all such heresies (Arianism, Modalism, etc), and what all such heresies have in common, is that they're attempting to explain God rather than love Him.
In addition, a soulish man doesn't receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they're foolishness to him and he's not able to know them because they're discerned spiritually.
In other words, to understand God (Christ, Their Spirit), you have to have Christ

97 If he was that God then he could not stand in relation to that God.
To the contrary: unlike Arianism, Modalism, Islam, and Judaism without Christ teach: God is 3 in 1

90 Isaiah 9:6 calls Jesus "Mighty God" but not "Almighty God".
Contrary to Chandler's polytheism

Hear O Israel, Jehovah's our God; Jehovah's one.
Jehovah's God in heaven above and upon the earth below; there's no other

I fully accept that Jesus is "Mighty God". He is also the "Everlasting Father" of Isaiah 9:6.
Just as God's only one and there's only one God,
the Father, Son, and Spirit;
there's only one divine Father
Eph 4:6 Isa 9:6

Jesus is not God the Father.
To the contrary of this deceit:
"I and the Father are one"
John 10:30.

Jesus isn't His Father in the sense of replacing Him or of eradicating Their eternal Father-Son relationship and persons.

Jesus is His Father in the sense of being His Father's Son
(homousion, containing Him, expressing Him, including Him)

Jesus is a different person, Mighty but not Almighty.
Jesus is a different person within the Trinity. Not a different person outside of, or separate from, the Father. Since Father, Son, and Spirit are inseverable. Being one Organism, one Being, one God: God.

What's centrally "different" here is Chandler's polytheism, Jehovah Witnessism's pantheon, versus Father, Son, Spirit and Their revelation of God to Their apostles in Scripture

Jesus said: "The Father is greater than I." (John 14:28)
Who existing in the form of God didn't consider being equal with God a treasure to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave, becoming in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man

88 if the organisers of TOL decree that "Exclusive Christian Theology" is only for those who believe Jesus to be Almighty God then I shall abide by their wishes and never intrude here again.
We'll see if they can or will

[aikido7]

Matthew 16:15, 16 reports: "But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Peter didn't say: "You are Almighty God." He declared that Christ was, not God, but the Son of God.I would just say--seriously--that not everybody in the gospels had the same literal interpretation. Matthew's Peter was no exception.

Son of God, God, Messiah, Savior, divine sacrifice--all of these designations ultimately depended on the specific gospel writer's theology, location and the particular events their communities lived through. For example, Mark's Jesus cries out "My God, why have you forsaken me?" on the cross. In John, Jesus is made to show that everything in the scriptures has been fulfilled and the crucifixion is just one aspect of that ("It is finished!").

Mark's community was written shortly after or during the Roman-Jewish wars. Many Jews were killed and died in agony. Mark's crucifixion narrative shows that.

John's gospel was written much later--probably in the 90s. By then the christology of Jesus was solidifying and John's gospel of Jesus speaking in long, theological discourses confirms that.


The later canonical designations (Son of God, Messiah, etc.) were all theological affirmations.

[Chandler]

I would just say--seriously--that not everybody in the gospels had the same literal interpretation. Matthew's Peter was no exception.

Son of God, God, Messiah, Savior, divine sacrifice--all of these designations ultimately depended on the specific gospel writer's theology, location and the particular events their communities lived through. For example, Mark's Jesus cries out "My God, why have you forsaken me?" on the cross. In John, Jesus is made to show that everything in the scriptures has been fulfilled and the crucifixion is just one aspect of that ("It is finished!").

Mark's community was written shortly after or during the Roman-Jewish wars. Many Jews were killed and died in agony. Mark's crucifixion narrative shows that.

John's gospel was written much later--probably in the 90s. By then the christology of Jesus was solidifying and John's gospel of Jesus speaking in long, theological discourses confirms that.


The later canonical designations (Son of God, Messiah, etc.) were all theological affirmations.
Interesting observations. I take the view that whatever the time and circumstances of the writing, "all scripture is given by inspiration of God" (2 Timothy 3:16).

I believe that Matthew originally wrote his gospel in Hebrew, intending this to be a conclusion to the Old Testament Hebrew writings. He also included many quotations showing fulfillment of prophesy in Jesus' lifetime. And of course, the gospels contain many prophetic utterances of Jesus. Hence, both the gospel writers and their readers must have acknowledged the gospel writings as scripture inspired by God and free from human error.

[Chandler]

To the contrary of this deceit:
"I and the Father are one"
John 10:30.

Jesus isn't His Father in the sense of replacing Him or of eradicating Their eternal Father-Son relationship and persons.

Jesus is His Father in the sense of being His Father's Son
(homousion, containing Him, expressing Him, including Him)


Jesus is a different person within the Trinity. Not a different person outside of, or separate from, the Father. Since Father, Son, and Spirit are inseverable. Being one Organism, one Being, one God: God.

Hello Writer. I wish that we could have a friendly discussion without you accusing me of misrepresentation and deceit.

Your view that Jesus is "not a different person from" the Father (do I understand you correctly?) is quite different from the Trinity doctrine: One God but three separate persons. This seems to lead to the idea that God the Father died for our sins (some early theologians believed this).

I disagree with you because Hebrews 1:3 says that Jesus is "the express image of his person" (KJV).

This pictures Jesus as having the "image" (Greek: "charakter") of God the Father but not actually being that person (Greek: "hypostasis" = substance).

Who existing in the form of God didn't consider being equal with God a treasure to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave, becoming in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man

The word for "grasped" in Philippians 2:6 is "harpagmos", a very strong term meaning "to snatch or seize with violence". The KJV correctly translates this as "robbery". Elsewhere in the scriptures forms of this word mean literal plunder and robbery. The name of the mythical harpy, a snatching half bird, half woman, is derived from this word.

The sense of Philippians 2:6 is that Jesus never ever gave consideration to violently seizing equality with God for himself (as Satan did). Becoming equal with God was never in his thoughts.

We'll see if they can or will
Any news on that? I consider myself a Christian but I can't help it if others do not.

[aikido7]

Interesting observations. I take the view that whatever the time and circumstances of the writing, "all scripture is given by inspiration of God" (2 Timothy 3:16).

I believe that Matthew originally wrote his gospel in Hebrew, intending this to be a conclusion to the Old Testament Hebrew writings. He also included many quotations showing fulfillment of prophesy in Jesus' lifetime. And of course, the gospels contain many prophetic utterances of Jesus. Hence, both the gospel writers and their readers must have acknowledged the gospel writings as scripture inspired by God and free from human error.I agree with Timothy.

And I also believe that the gospel writers were inspired to make sense of Jesus' life by using their own scriptural tradition as a springboard for telling parts of the story in ways that would resonate with that traditon.

And I know that this view is a purely historical one. The popular, "theological view" is not persuasive to me. I am a minority on TOL. Whenever I sit at the counter I am denied service. Such is life. ;)

[Chandler]

I agree with Timothy.

And I also believe that the gospel writers were inspired to make sense of Jesus' life by using their own scriptural tradition as a springboard for telling parts of the story in ways that would resonate with that traditon.


I can definitely see traits of individuality in the gospel writings. Tax collector Matthew is always accurate with numbers. And physician Luke sometimes includes details of miraculous healing that the other three omit (Luke 22:51).

And I know that this view is a purely historical one. The popular, "theological view" is not persuasive to me. I am a minority on TOL. Whenever I sit at the counter I am denied service. Such is life. ;)
As a Jehovah's Witness I am just a minority of one on TOL. And if Writer gets his way I will soon be a minority of zero on the Exclusively Christian forum.

[aikido7]

...As a Jehovah's Witness I am just a minority of one on TOL. And if Writer gets his way I will soon be a minority of zero on the Exclusively Christian forum.I definitely can hear that. But maybe there's an upside: we heretics might get to choose the type of wooden stake we will be lashed to before we are burned.;)

[writer]

102 I consider myself a Christian but I can't help it if others do not.
i consider u not Christian in the least.
i should ask u: What's a Christian?

Hello Writer. I wish that we could have a friendly discussion without you accusing me of misrepresentation and deceit.
Then don't misrepresent or deceive

Your view that Jesus is "not a different person from" the Father (do I understand you correctly?)
What do u base that on?

...is quite different from the Trinity doctrine: One God but three separate persons.
Father, Son, and Spirit aren't separate.

That's a trinity of 3 Gods. Not 3 in 1

This seems to lead to the idea that God the Father died for our sins (some early theologians believed this).
God "died." Not God the Father

Hebrews 1:3 says that Jesus is "the express image of his person" (KJV).

This pictures Jesus as having the "image" (Greek: "charakter") of God the Father but not actually being that person (Greek: "hypostasis" = substance).
The image of the Father is the Son.

Father and Son are of the same Being.
Not the same "Person"

Who existing in the form of God didn't consider being equal with God a treasure to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave, becoming in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man

The sense of Philippians 2:6 is that Jesus never ever gave consideration to violently seizing equality with God for himself (as Satan did). Becoming equal with God was never in his thoughts.
To the contrary of Chandler' deliberate misrepresentative deceit regarding this Scripture (and others): Jesus didn't consider seizing Godhood because as Christ He emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave, becoming in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, becoming obedient unto death, and that, the death of a cross.
For which reason God highly exalted Him, and gave Him the name above every name...

In other words, He not only returned to His Deity in form; Christ also made His human nature God

[aikido7]

...Father, Son, and Spirit aren't separate.

...for the Father is greater than I.John 14:28

I and the Father are One.John 10:30

Pick a verse, pick a side, start a movement, found a church, split into a schism and come out fighting.;)

[writer]

...for the Father is greater than I.John 14:28

I and the Father are One.John 10:30

Pick a verse, pick a side, start a movement, found a church, split into a schism and come out fighting.
Why?

Does Aikido7 mistakenly think they're contradictory?

[aikido7]

Why?

Does Aikido7 mistakenly think they're contradictory?Nah. No more than love your enemies and kill terrorists or forgive 70 times 7 and condemn anyone who crosses you or the sun shines on the evil and the good and America is Number One. Or pay attention to the log in your own eye and belittle the other.

Contradictions? Aw, how can you say such a thing?

[Chandler]

i consider u not Christian in the least.
i should ask u: What's a Christian?


Then don't misrepresent or deceive


What do u base that on?


Father, Son, and Spirit aren't separate.

That's a trinity of 3 Gods. Not 3 in 1


God "died." Not God the Father


The image of the Father is the Son.

Father and Son are of the same Being.
Not the same "Person"


To the contrary of Chandler' deliberate misrepresentative deceit regarding this Scripture (and others): Jesus didn't consider seizing Godhood because as Christ He emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave, becoming in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, becoming obedient unto death, and that, the death of a cross.
For which reason God highly exalted Him, and gave Him the name above every name...

In other words, He not only returned to His Deity in form; Christ also made His human nature God
Most of us on TOL can get along with each other without the fur flying too much. But if you are truly convinced that I am evil and deceitful then perhaps you and I should have no further discussion. I am not offended but I know when to back off.

I at least give the other members the honour of not doubting their sincerity.

[writer]

109 "kill terrorists," "condemn anyone who crosses you," "America is Number One," "belittle the other"
Contradictions?
Bible verses?

Aikido7's Satanic verses

Aw, how can you say such a thing?
Neither Scripture nor i said or say the above.
Aikido7 wrote em

110 if you are truly convinced that I am evil and deceitful then perhaps you and I should have no further discussion. I am not offended but I know when to back off.
I at least give the other members the honour of not doubting their sincerity.
Sincere lies are lies.
In any case, based on 2 John 10, your first sentence is an excellent suggestion to me, which i'll follow

[aikido7]

Bible verses?

Aikido7's Satanic verses


Neither Scripture nor i said or say the above.
Aikido7 wrote em


Sincere lies are lies.
In any case, based on 2 John 10, your first sentence is an excellent suggestion to me, which i'll followNah. No more than love your enemies and kill terrorists or forgive 70 times 7 and condemn anyone who crosses you or the sun shines on the evil and the good and America is Number One. Or pay attention to the log in your own eye and belittle the other.

Contradictions? Aw, how can you say such a thing?I have gone over in boldface the sentence fragments that actually go back to New Testament gospel verses that quote Jesus. You can look up the actual verses and their context by consulting a concordance. Unfortunately, these sayings attributed to Jesus are contradicted by those who call themselves Christian every day!

The contradictions I wrote next to each quote from Jesus are not necessarily found in the Bible, but in one's daily life. No lie there.

And I am sincere about it.

[Chandler]

I definitely can hear that. But maybe there's an upside: we heretics might get to choose the type of wooden stake we will be lashed to before we are burned.;)
How would you like your stake? Rare, medium or well done . . .

[mcarson1]

Hello all,

I want to find a thread that deals with fidelity or create one. Anyone know if one already exists?

[mcarson1]

:help: Hello all,

I want to find a thread that deals with fidelity or create one. Anyone know if one already exists?

[Delmar]

Hello all,

I want to find a thread that deals with fidelity or create one. Anyone know if one already exists?

There are probably several, but it is always good to look at things from a fresh angle. I suggest you start a new thread. Let me know if you need any help doing so.

Oh, welcome to TOL!

[mcarson1]

Thank you Delmar,

I can't figure out how to start a new thread. Can you give me some instrucitons please?

Mark

[Delmar]

Sure
Go to the "forum jump" at the bottom right hand corner of this page, and select which "forum" you would like to start your thread in. Since the topic you suggested would be fitting in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" section ( that we are currently in) you really wouldn't even have to select a forum. Just click the "go" button beside the forum jump.

When you jump to the new screen. Look at the top left for a button that says "new thread" click on "new thread" and you will be ready to make your opening post. Don't forget to give it a title.


I would also suggest playing around with the "forum jump" to see where you can go on TOL.

[aikido7]

How would you like your stake? Rare, medium or well done . . .Now that's the kind of last meal I'd like! ;)

[Ps82]

...for the Father is greater than I.John 14:28

I and the Father are One.John 10:30

Pick a verse, pick a side, start a movement, found a church, split into a schism and come out fighting.;)

Hi Aikido7 and writer,
There is no reason to pick a side, because there is no contradiction. After a lot of personal Bible study I have discovered a theory (which I believe is a true interpretation of scripture) that shows how both of these statements can be correct simultaneously.

This thread is not a discussion thread however ... so I won't begin here.

However, if either of you are interested in my explanation, let me know, and I'll share my theory on another thread.

[Chandler]

Hi Aikido7 and writer,
There is no reason to pick a side, because there is no contradiction. After a lot of personal Bible study I have discovered a theory (which I believe is a true interpretation of scripture) that shows how both of these statements can be correct simultaneously.

This thread is not a discussion thread however ... so I won't begin here.

However, if either of you are interested in my explanation, let me know, and I'll share my theory on another thread.
When Jesus said "I and the Father are one", he didn't mean that he and the Father have one substance or essence. To suggest that he did would be to introduce ideas that were not in existence in the minds of anyone in first century Christianity.

Jesus simply meant that the Father and himself are working together and with harmony of purpose.

Jesus' oneness with the Father is no more mysterious than the unity of all true Christians. John 17:22 says: "that they may be one as we are one."

[Pariah]

Hello All,

I believe the deceptions in the churches has gotten so bad that I am seen as a trouble maker, by the grace of God, in trying to reprove the works of darkness by the scriptures as well as discern the works of darkness by the scriptures that nobody wants to take it to the Lord in prayer. Gets harder when they use other errant bible versions to make their stand whereas the KJV reproves it clearly. Truly, I can see why the rapture before the great tribulation is needed as judgment must fall on the House of God first to set things straight in regards to the faith for those left behind. May the Lord enable me to share here and cause the increase.

[Letsargue]

I realize this is not going to make everyone happy but I have discussed this issue with the other TOL owners and here is the decision we have made regarding the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Originally when we decided to create this forum we wanted a place to discuss AND debate Christian theology without unbelievers distracting the debate with mindless comments like... "so... how did all the animals fit on the ark?" or... "the Bible has been translated so many times.... bla bla bla".
:dunce:

The "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum was never intended to be a place where there would be no debate..... and excluding those who think they are Christian based on our standard of Christianity excludes too many possible participants to promote healthy debate.

Therefore...
The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

There are plenty of other forums here at TOL for debating the legitimacy of the Bible.

And unlike morality the above rules and guidelines are very SUBJECTIVE so we ask that you honor our moderators requests if your input if out of line for this particular forum.

If you have any questions regarding these new guidelines please ask them on this thread.




Considering these guidelines, why is it that I can’t get any threads honestly put forth without being “harassed” by “someone” on TOL?
I have never done anything to the man, and I ask who ever the rule keepers are if they can get him off my back please.

I was asked to be nice by Mr. Knight when I was let back on TOL after being banned the last time for about three months. I have bothered no one since that time. It seems that “some” will not leave my threads and posts alone as the rules require.

I don’t think we are required to “like” each other as such, but I don’t think people have to be SO obnoxiously rude.
I just speak my faith. It may not be your faith, and your speech may not be my faith, but that can’t mean that we cannot speak, or does it? That’s what makes for a good argument / dispute; not a debate. - Romans 1:29 KJV
Peace.

---Paul---

[koban]

Considering these guidelines, why is it that I can’t get any threads honestly put forth without being “harassed” by “someone” on TOL?
I have never done anything to the man,

Oh no, only accused me of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit, you lying pile of dung. You still haven't backed up that lie.


and I ask who ever the rule keepers are if they can get him off my back please.

Look Whiner, all you have to do is answer the simple questions I put forward that were directly related to your goofy OP (that's Opening Post, or Original Post) here. (http://www.theologyonline.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1561727&postcount=89)

I was asked to be nice by Mr. Knight when I was let back on TOL after being banned the last time for about three months. I have bothered no one since that time. It seems that “some” will not leave my threads and posts alone as the rules require.

There's nothing in the rules that says I can't question your warped, silly theology, or your insistence that your interpretation is the only correct one.

I don’t think we are required to “like” each other as such, but I don’t think people have to be SO obnoxiously rude.

Good point. I guess it's about time for you to stop being so obnoxiously rude then, isn't it?


I just speak my faith. It may not be your faith, and your speech may not be my faith, but that can’t mean that we cannot speak, or does it?

Speak away! While you're at it, why not answer the questions put to you?

[RhodaRose]

I could cry...here I thought I found a spot on a forum that would be serious and be a learning tool..but a bunch of posts that don't amount to the "paper they are printed on" just using a lot of space that the true God Seekers have to sift through to get the wheat from the chaff.

Hebrews 6:1-3 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit.

Looks like we also need the permission of the hecklers and space-wasters...

FYI

The new rules for the Exclusively Christian forum - January 13th, 2004, 12:08 PM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I realize this is not going to make everyone happy but I have discussed this issue with the other TOL owners and here is the decision we have made regarding the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Originally when we decided to create this forum we wanted a place to discuss AND debate Christian theology without unbelievers distracting the debate with mindless comments like... "so... how did all the animals fit on the ark?" or... "the Bible has been translated so many times.... bla bla bla".


The "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum was never intended to be a place where there would be no debate..... and excluding those who think they are Christian based on our standard of Christianity excludes too many possible participants to promote healthy debate.

Therefore...
The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

There are plenty of other forums here at TOL for debating the legitimacy of the Bible.

And unlike morality the above rules and guidelines are very SUBJECTIVE so we ask that you honor our moderators requests if your input if out of line for this particular forum.

If you have any questions regarding these new guidelines please ask them on this thread.

Maybe we serious teachers and learners could have a place that is password required so we can block out the space-wasters or "space cadets"...the ones with only "space" between their ears and their two front teeth..whistling Dixie while the rest of us are trying to Praise and Glorify our God, our Father and our Creator

[BRYAN70634]

I realize this is not going to make everyone happy but I have discussed this issue with the other TOL owners and here is the decision we have made regarding the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Originally when we decided to create this forum we wanted a place to discuss AND debate Christian theology without unbelievers distracting the debate with mindless comments like... "so... how did all the animals fit on the ark?" or... "the Bible has been translated so many times.... bla bla bla".
:dunce:

The "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum was never intended to be a place where there would be no debate..... and excluding those who think they are Christian based on our standard of Christianity excludes too many possible participants to promote healthy debate.

Therefore...
The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

There are plenty of other forums here at TOL for debating the legitimacy of the Bible.

And unlike morality the above rules and guidelines are very SUBJECTIVE so we ask that you honor our moderators requests if your input if out of line for this particular forum.

If you have any questions regarding these new guidelines please ask them on this thread.

Here is what I think...........We are here because we so desperately want to be used by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ blessed be the name.......but in so doing we "prime" the starter with humanity and self and we distribute angst and argument...the harvest is here........We must become little children UNDERSTAND WE DONT UNDERSTAND there are soooooo many waiting to hear the word of simplicity why must we argue

[TomO]

Here is what I think...........We are here because we so desperately want to be used by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ blessed be the name.......but in so doing we "prime" the starter with humanity and self and we distribute angst and argument...the harvest is here........We must become little children UNDERSTAND WE DONT UNDERSTAND there are soooooo many waiting to hear the word of simplicity why must we argue

Argue? Who's arguing here? Nobody argues here. :nono:

[BRYAN70634]

Here is what I think...........We are here because we so desperately want to be used by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ blessed be the name.......but in so doing we "prime" the starter with humanity and self and we distribute angst and argument...the harvest is here........We must become little children UNDERSTAND WE DONT UNDERSTAND there are soooooo many waiting to hear the word of simplicity why must we argue

As we debate a tit or a tat a comma or a hyphen, life rambles on, the struggle is enveloping and the road is scarred with self ritiousness and denial. If we want to make a difference, the battle is not amongst ourselfs. this is fun for the mind tickle..........but it is time for the simple message..."Love one another as I have loved you"...............wow even a punk kid could get that

[BRYAN70634]

Look at the faces out there......the empty look the blank stare..the yearning for the one true answer Should we not focus on the simplicity of His gift rather than the theological intricacies we have created with our pride

[TomO]

As we debate a tit or a tat a comma or a hyphen, life rambles on, the struggle is enveloping and the road is scarred with self ritiousness and denial. If we want to make a difference, the battle is not amongst ourselfs. this is fun for the mind tickle..........but it is time for the simple message..."Love one another as I have loved you"...............wow even a punk kid could get that

:noid: Why are you talking to yourself?

[whisperingwillows]

Now that you brought it up, how did God get all those animals on the ark? (I almost spelled it arch) Seriously! It was a big boat, but two of every kind (even bugs) that is just, mind blowing.

Brandy <------who is a Christian

In response to...

I realize this is not going to make everyone happy but I have discussed this issue with the other TOL owners and here is the decision we have made regarding the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Originally when we decided to create this forum we wanted a place to discuss AND debate Christian theology without unbelievers distracting the debate with mindless comments like... "so... how did all the animals fit on the ark?" or... "the Bible has been translated so many times.... bla bla bla".
:dunce:

The "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum was never intended to be a place where there would be no debate..... and excluding those who think they are Christian based on our standard of Christianity excludes too many possible participants to promote healthy debate.

Therefore...
The new standard for the "Exclusively Christian Theology" is to allow anyone to post here who considers themselves to be Christian and considers the Bible to be inspired by God.

Yes that creates a much bigger tent, but that's a good thing for healthy debate!

So... if you consider yourself a Christian and you consider the Bible to be the inspired word of God then you are welcome to post in the "Exclusively Christian Theology" forum.

Furthermore...
We are also willing to let any other unbeliever or follower of another religion post here if they are honestly seeking an answer to a question or have constructive input to the discussion. In other words... if an atheist has a question about God and he asks it in an honest, upfront way we will gladly deal with that question without booting him out of the forum.

Said in short...
This particular forum will be dedicated to debating biblical issues without debating the legitimacy of the Bible itself.

There are plenty of other forums here at TOL for debating the legitimacy of the Bible.

And unlike morality the above rules and guidelines are very SUBJECTIVE so we ask that you honor our moderators requests if your input if out of line for this particular forum.

If you have any questions regarding these new guidelines please ask them on this thread.

[JonathanC]

I am writing an apologetic book, and am interested in a reference to the town of Parium that I have found at Wikipedia when I googled this search term. Wikipedia said the town was known to have Christians before AD 180-200 based on the writings found in the Acts of the Martyr Onesiphorus.
I have been unable to locate this online or anywhere else.
I would really appreciate it if someone can help me access it.
Regards
JonathanC

[Lighthouse]

I am writing an apologetic book, and am interested in a reference to the town of Parium that I have found at Wikipedia when I googled this search term. Wikipedia said the town was known to have Christians before AD 180-200 based on the writings found in the Acts of the Martyr Onesiphorus.
I have been unable to locate this online or anywhere else.
I would really appreciate it if someone can help me access it.
Regards
JonathanC
This isn't the thread for this. Why don't you start a new thread?

[aikido7]

Hi Aikido7 and writer,
There is no reason to pick a side, because there is no contradiction. After a lot of personal Bible study I have discovered a theory (which I believe is a true interpretation of scripture) that shows how both of these statements can be correct simultaneously.

This thread is not a discussion thread however ... so I won't begin here.

However, if either of you are interested in my explanation, let me know, and I'll share my theory on another thread.God's truth has always been that which highlights the conflict between opposing ideologies.

Jesus was both man and God.

Contradiction?

Well, now that they are both in the same sentence, you can figure it out for yourself.

Of course the Bible has contradictions. Truth has nothing to do with being factually correct. That is a modern notion. We have become "fact fundamentalists."

All the contradictions in the world cannot negate the saving power of Christ.

I could cry...here I thought I found a spot on a forum that would be serious and be a learning tool..but a bunch of posts that don't amount to the "paper they are printed on" just using a lot of space that the true God Seekers have to sift through to get the wheat from the chaff.That's the way it has always been, RhodaRose. Going back to read Acts and some of Paul's writings shows that there was a lot of sifting going on in the first century and there is certainly the same thing going on now. The mockery and vindictiveness is the same: it's just that "false teachers," and the other insults and epithets that were used then have now become "space cadets." Times change, but the essence endures.

[Skeptical Inquirer]

I haven’t been coming here long, but have already began to wonder why the sight which is called “Theology on line” isn’t Theologically based.
I wonder if it isn’t already being taken over by other agendas.
One person said that “they came here because it was so free and open and they couldn’t find that elsewhere on the internet“. That is because we believe in freedom, because we have been set free. The same person said “that they had the right to do on this site as they saw fit without any restrictions“, here is where I disagree. I think there are plenty of sites where random discussions are allowed but few of them are as free of persecution as our Christian site.
I was looking for a while before I found this site, and I found it by doing a search under theology as that is what I was looking for.
I have noticed that the site has one section titled religion out of many others, and that it is somewhat overran with post debating the validity of theological thought rather than topics within theology. It appears that this Christians only section is being restructured to giving up this ground as well.
Remember the frog in the boiling water, not knowing because it was slowly heated up and so didn’t notice the differences over time. Maybe because I an new I can see we are in hot water already.
If you let anyone come here and do or say anything they want, pretty soon they will undermine the theological intent of this site and drive us out.
Although soon after that, they will stop letting anyone share freely and the site will shutdown like everywhere else. Then there will be no here to come and share on. They supposedly come here for the freedom but now they are telling us our limitations and their liberties.

[Knight]

I haven’t been coming here long, but have already began to wonder why the sight which is called “Theology on line” isn’t Theologically based.
I wonder if it isn’t already being taken over by other agendas.
One person said that “they came here because it was so free and open and they couldn’t find that elsewhere on the internet“. That is because we believe in freedom, because we have been set free. The same person said “that they had the right to do on this site as they saw fit without any restrictions“, here is where I disagree. I think there are plenty of sites where random discussions are allowed but few of them are as free of persecution as our Christian site.
I was looking for a while before I found this site, and I found it by doing a search under theology as that is what I was looking for.
I have noticed that the site has one section titled religion out of many others, and that it is somewhat overran with post debating the validity of theological thought rather than topics within theology. It appears that this Christians only section is being restructured to giving up this ground as well.
Remember the frog in the boiling water, not knowing because it was slowly heated up and so didn’t notice the differences over time. Maybe because I an new I can see we are in hot water already.
If you let anyone come here and do or say anything they want, pretty soon they will undermine the theological intent of this site and drive us out.
Although soon after that, they will stop letting anyone share freely and the site will shutdown like everywhere else. Then there will be no here to come and share on. They supposedly come here for the freedom but now they are telling us our limitations and their liberties.Theology is the predominant topic here at TOL.

Yet