I AM NEW AND VERY DISAPPOINTED

[SoulSearch]

I question the level of help that a forum like this actually provides. My experience to date indicates that more confusion is bred here than real help. Because the overwhelming majority of folks today are very unskilled in matters of Scripture, they have no accurate way to discern which position is correct or what professed truth is actually true. It also appears that many of the participants in this forum are only here to attempt to bolster their own egos. It seems they argue as a hobby - it apparently makes them feel good about themselves - but this is not condoned by the Bible, as we see in verses like 1Timothy 1:4 and 1Timothy 6:3-4. It seems their interest is not to genuinely help others, but to “show off” - I guess to bolster their own self-image. In my time of observing what actually goes on here, it appears that folks are more interested in tearing one another down than EDIFYING one another. I’m not sure how they justify this in light of many verses of Scripture, like Romans 14:19, Romans 15:1-2, and 1Corinthinas 10:23. I see so many comments that do nothing more than gender strife. It seems we have a lot of SCIENTISTS here, but I wonder how many REAL SCIENTISTS would be participating in this forum. People read stuff in books, articles, websites and so on, and they repeat it without having any real skill themselves of knowing what really is true about it. But repeat it they do. Even real scientists, who have committed lifetimes to the study of these things, don’t agree. But under the anonymity of the online community, you can pretend to be anything. And many do.

Bottom line, God’s people are people of FAITH, not science. 1Timothy 6:20 speaks to this fact, as well as Hebrews 11:6. The study and understanding of the theories and laws of science constantly change - they are DYNAMIC. The one thing all of us should learn from science is that we know but a FRAGMENT of scientific truth as it relates to the energies and forces of this universe of which we are a part. The Lord did not tell us that WITHOUT SCIENCE it is impossible to please God - but WITHOUT FAITH.

I have lived for a number of decades. Some would consider me an old man. This I know, LIFE IS HARD for all of us. Rich, poor, healthy, unhealthy, good looking or not, fit or not, successful or not, popular or not, loved or not, large family or no family, many friends or few friends - it doesn’t matter. LIFE IS A DIFFICULT JOURNEY for each one. By the grace of God Almighty, I want to help others “through it all” when life hurts. What about you?

Who knows who really reads all of these comments in these different threads. I’m sure a diversity of people worldwide. Honestly, what do you believe they really think about the so-called Christian community based on what has been written here?

According to what I find in the Bible, there are nine characteristics to the Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. LOVE, JOY, PEACE, LONG-SUFFERING, GENTLENESS, GOODNESS, FAITH, MEEKNESS AND TEMPERANCE. If we used this as our FILTER for what is led by the Holy Spirit - I wouldn’t know what other criteria to use - I wonder how much of what is written on this forum would pass through it.

 

[missy2shoes]

Hi....sorry ya disappointed

 

[missy2shoes]

There is more to this forum than just heated debates....I have met some great people here....

 

[whiteknite]

hi soulsearch
Sorry you're disappointed here. Most of the postings here are members chatting with each other, giving advice for someone's problem, offering or asking for prayers, basically; some fellowship. Of course, none of that will replace reading your bible and praying. We all know that Jesus is our Lord/Savior but still like to enjoy our time here on CC.

I hope you give us a chance to get to know you & you get to know us. Most of us here are very caring people.

 

[Came_to_my_rescue]

Hey welcome to CC. I am new here as well, and I have noticed the same. People are trying to push their idea on others by using the most scripture so they feel bigger, but it does nothing rarely will it change anyone's view because of sides will have scripture to back up whatever claim (sometimes it's vague though). What we should be focusing on though is those who's minds we can change through God the unsaved (only God can change their heart but we can plant seeds). Seriously people is there a family member, friend, co-worker that if they died today would go to hell? Are you ok with that?

 

[pogrud]

I question the level of help that a forum like this actually provides. My experience to date indicates that more confusion is bred here than real help. Because the overwhelming majority of folks today are very unskilled in matters of Scripture, they have no accurate way to discern which position is correct or what professed truth is actually true. It also appears that many of the participants in this forum are only here to attempt to bolster their own egos.

SoulSearch, the issue is that there are a variety of interpretations on the majority of scripture/teachings. That's why there are so many branches of Christianity. This is a whole Christianity web site though. If you want one view of Christianity, it's probably best to find a website for one school of teaching - pick one that fits best with your outlook. If you want to stay here, have a look at some of the other 'forums' on the site that aren't debates about scripture, they're more constructive.

It seems we have a lot of SCIENTISTS here, but I wonder how many REAL SCIENTISTS would be participating in this forum. People read stuff in books, articles, websites and so on, and they repeat it without having any real skill themselves of knowing what really is true about it. But repeat it they do. Even real scientists, who have committed lifetimes to the study of these things, don’t agree.

Yes, many people do quote things as science without really having any personal understanding. This is probably one of the things that annoys me most. I've studied Physics/Maths to a post-doctoral level. I have friends who have studied Geology, Chemistry, Biology/Genetics and Psychology to similar levels. I could back up most my arguments with scientific publications.

Bottom line, God’s people are people of FAITH, not science. 1Timothy 6:20 speaks to this fact, as well as Hebrews 11:6. The study and understanding of the theories and laws of science constantly change - they are DYNAMIC. The one thing all of us should learn from science is that we know but a FRAGMENT of scientific truth as it relates to the energies and forces of this universe of which we are a part. The Lord did not tell us that WITHOUT SCIENCE it is impossible to please God - but WITHOUT FAITH.

You're right. But it upsets me when people try to create tension between groups for no reason. I think understanding is important. The whole division between creation v evolution is non-sense. I try to use my knowledge to help people seperate the wheat from the chaff in such arguments. I'm sorry if you find such arguments unreasonable, I just wish there was a better understanding of the science community.

 

[SoulSearch]

There is more to this forum than just heated debates....I have met some great people here....

I'm sure that is true. I have mainly viewed the Bible Discussion Forum becasue that was my main interest. The venom and caustic input of some of these folks is simply amazing - that is for professing believers. Otherwise, not particularly surprising.

 

[SoulSearch]

hi soulsearch
Sorry you're disappointed here. Most of the postings here are members chatting with each other, giving advice for someone's problem, offering or asking for prayers, basically; some fellowship. Of course, none of that will replace reading your bible and praying. We all know that Jesus is our Lord/Savior but still like to enjoy our time here on CC.

I hope you give us a chance to get to know you & you get to know us. Most of us here are very caring people.

I appreciate your input. My interest was mainly in Bible DISCUSSION groups. It was there I discovered what I earlier wrote. And I'm not stating that it was all the time in every thread, but in the majority of it. Again, I was interested in godly DISCUSSION, not angry rhetoric.

 

[SoulSearch]

Hey welcome to CC. I am new here as well, and I have noticed the same. People are trying to push their idea on others by using the most scripture so they feel bigger, but it does nothing rarely will it change anyone's view because of sides will have scripture to back up whatever claim (sometimes it's vague though). What we should be focusing on though is those who's minds we can change through God the unsaved (only God can change their heart but we can plant seeds). Seriously people is there a family member, friend, co-worker that if they died today would go to hell? Are you ok with that?

Thank you for your feedback. I just have to spend more time looking for others who have a similar interest. Sounds like you do. Thanks again, and God Bless.

 

[BLC]

SoulSearch,

I am relatively new here compared to others, but I am probably one of those that you are referring to and I don't say that with introspection but with promise. I have said many things that have been without discretion, even though they are true according to the convictions I have received from God over the years. I received personal messages on this site, from individuals that were very kind but chided me in how I communicate with some people. I received that and was thankful for what they had to say. When you write a book you have the liberty to boldly state your convictions because people can receive what you say or reject it. When you are confronting individuals personally, those convictions need to be tempered because of the capacity of individuals. Some, you can be stronger with while with others you have to be more gentle and patient with, as we do with all men.

If someone is creating a problem or causing division without providing a solution or some kind of resolve, that would tend toward vanity and not be edifying. Edifying is when you build from the bottom up and sometimes you have to tear down first before you can do that. I am not advocating tearing down individuals but rather a dismantling first before you rebuild. We must build on the right foundation or we labor in vain. Surely, no one has perfect understanding of all things, but we do have access to the One who does and we can boldly approach His throne to obtain what we need as we grow in grace and knowledge of Christ (2Pt 3:18). There have been many observations that science has made because of the testimony of the scriptures that have been extremely relevant in revealing a practical faith for people to believe.
Sometime in the future it would be good to get into those, because they could be very helpful with the gospel we are commissioned to preach in all the world. Just to wet your whistle, in (Gen 1) God claims to have created all things in (6) days and then rested from His works on the (7th) day. As far as I know we still live in a (7) day week so that makes it scientifically up-to-date and very practical to believe by faith because Christ created all things (Ex 20:11, Mk 2:27, Eph 3:9, Col1:16). Genesis ch 1 was written by Moses who was raised under Pharoah and was educated in the philosophy of life that worshipped many gods and believed that man came from the slime of the Nile.

 

[SoulSearch]

SoulSearch, the issue is that there are a variety of interpretations on the majority of scripture/teachings. That's why there are so many branches of Christianity. This is a whole Christianity web site though. If you want one view of Christianity, it's probably best to find a website for one school of teaching - pick one that fits best with your outlook. If you want to stay here, have a look at some of the other 'forums' on the site that aren't debates about scripture, they're more constructive.



Yes, many people do quote things as science without really having any personal understanding. This is probably one of the things that annoys me most. I've studied Physics/Maths to a post-doctoral level. I have friends who have studied Geology, Chemistry, Biology/Genetics and Psychology to similar levels. I could back up most my arguments with scientific publications.



You're right. But it upsets me when people try to create tension between groups for no reason. I think understanding is important. The whole division between creation v evolution is non-sense. I try to use my knowledge to help people seperate the wheat from the chaff in such arguments. I'm sorry if you find such arguments unreasonable, I just wish there was a better understanding of the science community.

I agree, understanding is crucial to any area of study. My question is, would the Christian community be better served if the same energy was put into helping others as it is debating areas where there is even differing opinions by educated folks on the absolutes - let alone all the theories? I do want to say I thank you for taking the time to respond. Maybe you can help me understand some things better.

 

[Aliciaforjesus]

Hello,
My name is Alicia!

I would have to agree with you, there are people in here that sound like clanging symbols!

More like the fruit of the Pharisees and of Lawyers!
and they do make it hard to find the truth,
but maybe that's why God brought you here!

Our fight is not against flesh and blood!

We overcame by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony?

Don't let your heart be troubled for no reason, Pray!

Then say what the Lord tells ya to say, done in Love, it never fails!

It moves mountains and can even change the hardest of hearts, even in here!

Jesus is the one who builds His church, one person at a time!

Pray!

 

[eric51]

I
It seems we have a lot of SCIENTISTS here, but I wonder how many REAL SCIENTISTS would be participating in this forum. People read stuff in books, articles, websites and so on, and they repeat it without having any real skill themselves of knowing what really is true about it. But repeat it they do. Even real scientists, who have committed lifetimes to the study of these things, don’t agree. But under the anonymity of the online community, you can pretend to be anything. And many do.

Bottom line, God’s people are people of FAITH, not science.

.

Amen. Odd how skeptics towards faith, and bible literalists [aka fundamentalists], tend to be scientists. LOL

In Christ

 

[SoulSearch]

SoulSearch,

I am relatively new here compared to others, but I am probably one of those that you are referring to and I don't say that with introspection but with promise. I have said many things that have been without discretion, even though they are true according to the convictions I have received from God over the years. I received personal messages on this site, from individuals that were very kind but chided me in how I communicate with some people. I received that and was thankful for what they had to say. When you write a book you have the liberty to boldly state your convictions because people can receive what you say or reject it. When you are confronting individuals personally, those convictions need to be tempered because of the capacity of individuals. Some, you can be stronger with while with others you have to be more gentle and patient with, as we do with all men.

If someone is creating a problem or causing division without providing a solution or some kind of resolve, that would tend toward vanity and not be edifying. Edifying is when you build from the bottom up and sometimes you have to tear down first before you can do that. I am not advocating tearing down individuals but rather a dismantling first before you rebuild. We must build on the right foundation or we labor in vain. Surely, no one has perfect understanding of all things, but we do have access to the One who does and we can boldly approach His throne to obtain what we need as we grow in grace and knowledge of Christ (2Pt 3:18). There have been many observations that science has made because of the testimony of the scriptures that have been extremely relevant in revealing a practical faith for people to believe.
Sometime in the future it would be good to get into those, because they could be very helpful with the gospel we are commissioned to preach in all the world. Just to wet your whistle, in (Gen 1) God claims to have created all things in (6) days and then rested from His works on the (7th) day. As far as I know we still live in a (7) day week so that makes it scientifically up-to-date and very practical to believe by faith because Christ created all things (Ex 20:11, Mk 2:27, Eph 3:9, Col1:16). Genesis ch 1 was written by Moses who was raised under Pharoah and was educated in the philosophy of life that worshipped many gods and believed that man came from the slime of the Nile.

I appreciate everything you have said and the seeming expression of honesty with which it was stated. And, at the risk of sounding redundant - as a believer myself - I choose not to ATTACK other believers. If they are a part of the family of faith, I want to help them understand, yes. Answer their questions in kindness, yes. Provide information that may benefit them to the increase of their faith, certainly. And no doubt - there is without question - some scientific discoveries that validate scripture. This information is without question edifying to believers. Further, I certainly understand that as believers we are called to stand up for what is right, earnestly contend for the faith, and to expose the works of darkness. I agree with all of that and work to live accordingly. My disappointment was with HOW some folks were posturing themselves AGAINST OTHERS - others who may be weak in the faith, babies in Christ, the walking wounded, etc.

As a war-time veteran, I was trained to NEVER leave a fallen comrade behind. It seems, too many times in the Christian community, not only are they left behind BUT WE SHOOT THEM! NOTHING LIKE SHOOTING YOUR OWN WOUNDED! BUT, WE ARE NOT THE ENEMY! The point I am trying to make, and maybe not doing a very good job at it, is that there are so many wounded and hurting soldiers in the trenches of life - folks just trying to figure out what it’s all about - it seems everyone would be better off if we went down in the trenches to HELP THEM instead of entertaining heated debates that no one will win anyway. Having said that, I am open to any information you would like to provide me that will be edifying to my faith. Thanks for listening.

 

[SoulSearch]

Amen. Odd how skeptics towards faith, and bible literalists [aka fundamentalists], tend to be scientists. LOL

In Christ

Thanks for your input.

 

[SoulSearch]

Hello,
My name is Alicia!

I would have to agree with you, there are people in here that sound like clanging symbols!

More like the fruit of the Pharisees and of Lawyers!
and they do make it hard to find the truth,
but maybe that's why God brought you here!

Our fight is not against flesh and blood!

We overcame by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony?

Don't let your heart be troubled for no reason, Pray!

Then say what the Lord tells ya to say, done in Love, it never fails!

It moves mountains and can even change the hardest of hearts, even in here!

Jesus is the one who builds His church, one person at a time!

Pray!

I genuinely appreciate your feedback and your encouragement. Have a blessed day.

 

[SoulSearch]

SoulSearch, the issue is that there are a variety of interpretations on the majority of scripture/teachings. That's why there are so many branches of Christianity. This is a whole Christianity web site though. If you want one view of Christianity, it's probably best to find a website for one school of teaching - pick one that fits best with your outlook. If you want to stay here, have a look at some of the other 'forums' on the site that aren't debates about scripture, they're more constructive.



Yes, many people do quote things as science without really having any personal understanding. This is probably one of the things that annoys me most. I've studied Physics/Maths to a post-doctoral level. I have friends who have studied Geology, Chemistry, Biology/Genetics and Psychology to similar levels. I could back up most my arguments with scientific publications.



You're right. But it upsets me when people try to create tension between groups for no reason. I think understanding is important. The whole division between creation v evolution is non-sense. I try to use my knowledge to help people seperate the wheat from the chaff in such arguments. I'm sorry if you find such arguments unreasonable, I just wish there was a better understanding of the science community.

One more thought. You wrote, "If you want one view of Christianity, it's probably best to find a website..." The only view of Christianity that interests me is the Biblical one. How about you?

 

[wisdomseeker]

I'm sure that is true. I have mainly viewed the Bible Discussion Forum becasue that was my main interest. The venom and caustic input of some of these folks is simply amazing - that is for professing believers. Otherwise, not particularly surprising.

Peace be to you
I would like if you where specific.That the person/persons could see who they are.Its child like to not take responsability for what you say to a community.

Love a friend in God

 

[SamIam]

Peace be to you
I would like if you where specific.That the person/persons could see who they are.Its child like to not take responsability for what you say to a community.

Love a friend in God

Dont you think that would just stir up trouble... by pointing fingers at people

 

[SoulSearch]

Peace be to you
I would like if you where specific.That the person/persons could see who they are.Its child like to not take responsability for what you say to a community.

Love a friend in God

What is important is that THEY know who they are and it is up to the Holy Spirit of God to convict them. I see no value in pointing anyone out. We all make mistakes - I'm definitely at the top of THAT LIST. I just wanted to provide some food for thought. In the difficult times that we are in, and the ones that definitely lie ahead, it is my position that, as believers, we should help one another. And I certainly believe that is the position of Scripture. Have a good evening.