The Mild Concerns of a New Onlooking Member

Hello, all. As a new member of this site, and as a young person in general, I am well aware that I am not the most qualified person to bring call something that I see is happening into question. I haven't even been here a day yet, but from thread histories and what I'm seeing the most attention being drawn to, I still feel like it would be beneficial to bring up, perhaps.

For the incredibly brief period of time I've been lurking here, I can't help but notice that there is a heavy amount of theological debating on this site - and from my outside perspective, little of it seems to be approached in a calm, friendly way that's meant to help others.

Titus 3:9 says "But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless."

2 Timothy 2:14 says "Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers. "

1 Peter 3:15 says "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear."

Yet, as I look on, it appears that many are looking to stir up discord; to prove themselves and their views right, and the views of others as wrong; to raise strife and contention. Is this what God has called those of His church to? I truly do believe that if someone says something that is clearly against the Bible and what God says, it should be approached in a manner of love and peace to help the person grow in their faith. But that's not how things appear to be, from my limited view. Instead, I'm seeing people trying to lord their denominational beliefs over those of others. I'm seeing people arguing over what makes a person a Christian. I'm seeing people question the validity of large sections of the Bible overall.

Hebrews 10:24-25 says "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. "

Ephesians 4:29 says "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. "

Romans 14:19 says "So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding."

John 13:35 says "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

While I do definitely see some good, supportive, encouraging love between the members of this site, quite a lot of it is overwhelmed out by the sight of burnt bridges between those who call themselves followers of Christ. Again, I'm not saying that a false view shouldn't be corrected. But there are also some times where it's incredibly hard if not outright impossible to be 100% clear what the proper interpretation of something is. If a person is walking according to what they see in God's word, if it leads them to follow, glorify, and honor God, and to share His love and the news of His sacrifice with others, then why should their faith be torn down in an attempt to replace it with the specifics of what you believe?

A very simple example (that I thankfully have yet to be seen brought up here, and I humbly ask that you not start a debate about this topic in the comments, as that would ignore the point of what I'm trying to say) is on the topic of Creation. Some, having studied the Bible, believe that God used controlled evolution to create everything. Others believe that God created everything step by step over an undetermined amount of time. Others believe that God created everything in seven literal days. Yet, each of these things focuses on God creating everything miraculously and glorifying God for His good works. Instead of trying to get others to see things our way in situations where it may not even fully matter, can't we all look to God and His love instead, glorifying Him and working to praise Him?

I apologize if I'm overstepping my boundaries as a new member. I simply felt that this issue should be approached.

Welcome to CC, Eagle!

Your assessment is correct. Just stay out of the Bicker and Debate (aka Bible Discussion) Forum and you'll be fine.

I just wish that didn't even have to be a problem in the first place, you know? I'm all for the truth. I'm all for trying to figure out what God actually wants us to learn. I just want us to be able to do it in an orderly, organized, proper way where everyone isn't thinking that they're the only ones in the right. Biblical Discussion is good and very important. It just seems that the way it's being handled isn't how brothers and sisters in Christ should act. 🤔

Out of the mouth of babes comes to mind, not because of your age but because as you admit, you are a new member here and you spoke truth.

I am so refreshed by your truth. I remember making the mistake of hanging out in the BDF, and being so dismayed by the character assassinations, hypocrisies flying from all sides, it making no sense and it seeming to oppose what we are instructed.

It made no sense, how could these ppl be so knowledgeable of the word, also be so blind to the truth in the verses that you mentioned, and the importance of the instructions given in how we are to interact with one another? Brotherly love, patience, kindness, tenderhearted, merciful...all of it.

I actually came in, like you, hoping to make a difference in that fighting arena. I actually thought I had a handle on the problem, and I set out to make a change. I was silly. Boy did that backfire. It seemed the more I tried to be a peacemaker, the more folks on all sides became angry at me, accusing me of flip flopping and lacking any sincerity, despite the truth of this verse...

James 3:17 ESV
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.

I remember still...how I learned from this, and that it turned out being good for my faith. I was putting too much focus on them, rather than my own walk.

Yes, it is good to do what you did with this thread, it is truth, it is edifying. I agree with you, 100%. However, I have also learned that discord between mankind, including brothers and sisters has been going on since the dawn of time. It is best not to allow that to cause our own stumble, right? We are flawed Christians, right?

I have held on to exodus 14:14 and verse 1 Thessalonians 4:11. I have been humbled and now just try and focus on doing what I can to bring forth His goodness. I realize others are trying to do the same, all in their own way.

Whenever I see darkness in the fold or in myself, perceived or real, I am reminded we all still need Jesus and His mercy.

We are to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him.

I think the best way to deal with the Bible Discussion Forum is to bring popcorn...no, I'm just kidding.

I just think they need our prayers, and if you do go in there, you will notice moments of humility and kindness. If we are able to avoid looking at contentious comments for too long, or the way one delivers their points, the opportunity to learn increases.

I think posting lovely threads focusing on Him, that which is pure and true is a great practice, like you just did. I just think it best to let the Holy Spirit work with them as He sees fit. Maybe though, He might have just used to speak truth. We can all do better.

God Bless you, young Brother. I like your input here. You are a blessing. Please, don't let anything get in the way of your humble and precious walk with Him.

I believe that a big part of the problem is that most people are never taught how to disagree respectfully, and never taught the tools of debate. I agree; there is a lot of unChristian behaviour, and all of it is unnecessary. I'm guilty of it myself at times. It takes self control to avoid telling your opponent that they are not just incorrect (in your view), but stupid or dangerous for their beliefs (though you may think it).

Stick around. We need people who encourage godly behaviour.

Thank you very much for your kind words, your advice, and your support, friend. I can tell, from the little that I've seen so far, that it's not this entire site that is a mess; it just has some problems here and there. And, to be fair, what place in all the world doesn't have its share of problems? I'm just thankful that there are lights still, especially ones who have experience with the darkness and know how to handle it properly.

I actually think this site is better than most. Try joining Quora and really be attacked for what you believe.

unfortunatley In these end times, as soon as a group of christians engage, your going to have lucifers servants turn up to cause turmoil and dissension. Also he has deliberately set up manmade religions and theology, making it much harder to teach people the truth. All you can do is quote scripture and move on.

2 Timothy 2:14-16

1 Peter 3:15

John 13:34-35 + Colossians 3:12-17

Welcome again to the site.

I can't take exception to any of the points of concern you have outlined and agree with your estimation. The thing is, and this important to keep in mind, that we are all family here. Many members have been here for years and know each other quite well. A lot of the perceived bickering may be in fact banter that is tossed back and forth in a good natured way, often with a hint of sarcasm to add a little wit and humor to the exchanged.

Yes, things can get a little heated sometimes in the Bible Discussion Forum but rarely, to the experienced observer, is actual harm intended. Of course, there are also the obvious trolls who join the site for the intention of disrupting it but these are soon weeded out.

As I have said, we are family here and yes, there are squabbles and arguments but that is about par for the course. It will take a certain amount of time to know who the players are and what they are about, and in doing so, what may look like a heated exchange is actually less heated than it appears and that the members genuinely care about each other.

My counsel, to get the most out of this site, is to do your best to integrate into the community and take the time to know who we are and what we are about. I have enjoyed your few contributions very much and appreciate your candor and honesty and look forward to your future posts. Relax and enjoy the fellowship.

You are part of the family now too.

we all should always be totally diligent in giving Honour and Praise to our Heavenly Father

That's a very fair point that I hadn't really considered 🤔 It still doesn't look great to an outside observer. Remember how I said that I found this site through Google? Those sorts of things could potentially be seen by a curious non-Christian and be driven away by it, not realizing what you're saying. I do appreciate that extra perspective and input, though. And, thanks =D

I don't think you will ever find the 'perfect' site, though I realise this isn't what you are trying to say. The internet is an open book for anyone to pretty much post what they like. And I tried several other sites, some Christian some not, but they were not for me, & I didn't feel safe on many of them. You can also complain to moderators about creepy people or whatever, but most don't do anything about it. Strangely enough, I feel safe on this site.
I think everyone here has been brought up in different faiths. Who am I to preach to someone what they should or should not believe when it comes to religion? For example, Mormons don't believe in drinking tea/coffee or using stimulants as it's considered poisoning your body, but other religions don't ban these substances. And I was also taught that the Bible was written in parables (for various reasons), & every religion seems to have a slightly different/different/similar interpretation, or outright unusual (to me) interpretation. There are also different Bibles also. I also feel PERSONALLY that at times, people quote Bible verses on their own out of context. All the differing personalities on here have been brought up with different beliefs to, and in different ways. And nobody is perfect - we like to think we are, but we aren't.
I don't get into the Bible discussions because I am no Bible expert, but they are very interesting to read.
I wasn't brought up a Christian, but my parents instilled good, sound, honest beliefs in me. I've come onto this site to learn, discuss & REALLY THINK about what is being debated here. I also just moved to a new area for work, and have no friends near me at all, so it is nice to get on a decent internet site & see what's the newest squabble or discussion for the day.
I believe this site is for discussion, debate, to QUESTION and REALLY DISSECT the scriptures to gain a better understanding of what God & Jesus want from us. It stimulates the brain and creates healthy & sometimes maybe unhealthy comments/posts. But you would get that anywhere in life; I certainly get it from some work colleagues, but I still have to work with them. We learn from everything around us.
I have noticed though that probably the ones who have been on here the longest are territorial about 'their' site - and this is perfectly understandable. I was given a warm welcome & haven't encountered too much hateful speech so far, but it will probably happen.
I have found this site much better than others & have also come on here to see what I can contribute to help others, just as Jesus did. I work in Mental Health & am passionate about it - everybody has problems and nobody is perfect, so we should try not to judge.
I hope that I can help as many people as I can on here & learn something new - and forgive 'those who trespass against me' - hopefully!! (but hey....I'm not perfect!)

Ive been on different forums, and christian ones since 2011.
This one I actually enjoy and feel safe on. Sometimes its just one member whos the ringleader who can spoil it for everyone else, esp if they become a bullying moderator.

There are some hint and tips to be aware of when posting that ive learned over the years.
One is you can use the ignore button.
And two is you dont need to post in every single thread or even read every thread. There are some forums I never go in as they dont interest me.
Three if someone is being nasty, not just to you but everyone, simply report them.

There will be wheat amongst tares in the field so dont be surprised about that. Also generational differences can be a thing too. Not everyone is the same and thinks like everyone else and thats actually ok. If everyone agreed with me all the time I would think what dont they have a mind their own or am I saying something and having yes men. So give up your need to control other people the fruit of the spirit is self control which means you can control yourself.

If things get a bit heated just take some time out.

I think one thing that Used to bother me was on christian forums in particular many of the american christians would just assume everyone came from their country and that everyone was supposed to know what they believed as an entire country as if God had ordained it especially above all other countries. Well no sorry it just isnt true the apple of Gods eye has always been Jeruslaem but Jesus wanted the gospel spread unto the ends of the earth and thats the entire planet not just the usa.

But Ive learned that sometimes you cant reason with patriots who have this superior view of themselves and view all other nations as their enemies.

Welcome young eagle. We do indeed need to be mindful of our words and actions. In the wise words of Dino, some people do not know how to discuss, instead of attacking. Some people have never been taught gentle communication. What we can do is shine a light of kindness, warmth, humour and support. There are so many stellar people here with real wisdom. In truth, what you seek, you will find. If you look for unreasonable people you will find them. If you'd like to have discussions with people who are supportive and ready to share some downhome perspectives, then you will also find them. We are a reflection of the messy church (our pastor did a sermon series on this). We are flawed and we fail. We are also forgiven and we have hope. Unfortunately we are all sinners so we can be disappointing. We have scars and strengths. Some days we share jokes and silly nonsense and other times we stand by people in despair. Stick around, ask questions, and share your stories. All the best to you.

Magenta you just rock. You radiate the love of Christ for people. Thank you for your ongoing kindness to others.

As for BDF I dont get into debates there. If a thread interests me I will post in it to learn and discuss but if its just an argument I wont even bother.

You can start your own threads so you can actually have a bit more direction on how you frame the discussion. Dont join flame wars, I would just ignore them.

I love the Bible and getting into the word so Im not really put off by the theologians. Its not for me to correct everyone who I think is misreading the Bible. They will find out soon enough from God himself whether they are right or wrong about their interpretarion.

Thank you, that is very sweet of you to say! Your post was full of wisdom, warmth, and understanding