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Heydave
Member



Joined: 2008/4/12
Posts: 1306
Hampshire, UK

 My Grief over this forum....time to close?

I don't think I am the only one here, but my spirit is deeply grieved (and I believe the Holy Spirit of God is grieved) over what has been posted recently on various topics.

Over the last week or so we have had postings that call those who who call sin what it is 'legalists'; we have had a total disregard for what scripture teaches us about the difference between men an women in favor of 'experience' or 'what feels right' and now we have posts that deny the very Word of God!

I am not intersted in debating any of these subjects any more with you on this thread, so don't even start.

I can accept there are legitimate points that can be discussed around each of these topics, but this is not what I read. What I read is an undermining of the very foundations of our faith. The enemy is at work and where are those who are supposed to be 'moderating' this site??

This website has been a blessing to many (including me)over the years, but maybe it is time to close down at least this forum? It is not glorifying to God and does not 'promote' Christ-centred revival.

May God have mercy on all these attacks on His word (yes HIS word)and grant repentance, without which there is no hope of any revival in the USA or Europe if this is the standard of the Christian church here.

I'm not sure I will continue to participate on this site, it is just too grievious to me!


_________________
Dave

 2012/1/13 3:58Profile
RobertW
Member



Joined: 2004/2/12
Posts: 4636
St. Joseph, Missouri

 Re: My Grief over this forum....time to close?

Dear brother, I appreciate your concern. Surely these forums have always experienced challenges over the years making them difficult to moderate at times. There is only a limited amount of time we can spend policing here. This is why Greg has asked repeatedly for prayer and asked that everyone follow the community rules. These forums are not the place to bring an agenda and many posters have been counseled with and unfortunately some have been banned in times past. Sadly, some reregister under a different name and try to post their agenda again when afforded opportunity. They get caught and are banned again, etc.

The solution for abuse is not non-use it is right-use. If the enemy attacks something it is because he sees it as a high value target. Prayer, perseverance and diligence are in order. Where sin abounded grace did much more abound. I think the same can be said here. The forums are useful for good. I will post the rules again for those new to the site. God Bless. Robert


Welcome to SermonIndex

You are about to enter a vast resource, a continuing expansion of thought from a variety of past saints, many who have since passed through the trial of death and have been preserved and resurrected here to speak once again to us all. SermonIndex desires to be a expression of the apostolic church found in Scriptures. It is a intra-denominational ministry with 100's of different denominations and ministries involved. Biblical truth and desire for revival is the emphasis which is foundational for the ministry. A general statement of faith can be read below.

Statement Of Faith

Being undenominational, we seek to minister to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity (Eph. 6:24), and to love all who love Him (John 15:12; 1 John 4:20-21). By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another (John 13:35). We hold to the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, as the inspired word of God. We believe in the New Birth, and that Salvation is a free gift of God through Jesus Christ to all who will repent, and believe the Gospel (Mark 1:15; John 3:16). We believe in the virgin birth of Jesus, the only begotten Son of God (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-35; Luke 2:1-7; John 1:14; John 3:16; Acts 13:16-41; 1 John 4:1-15). We believe in the deity of God the Father, the deity of Jesus, the Son of God, and the deity of the Holy Spirit. We believe that, while we were yet sinners, Jesus Christ shed His precious Blood on the cross, and died, that we might have life, and have it more abundantly (Rom. 5:8; John 10:10). We believe that Jesus rose again from the dead (1 Thess. 4:14; Luke 24:1-8; Acts 10:34-41; Luke 24:33-46). We believe that Jesus, some days after His resurrection from the dead, ascended to God in heaven (Acts1:1-10; Eph. 1:15-23). We believe in the personal return of Jesus with power and great glory (Luke 21:27), and that His return is an event for saved people to look forward to with great expectation and with constant watchfulness and prayer (Luke 21:34-36; 1 John 3:2-3). We believe that this same Jesus, which was taken up from the apostles into heaven, shall so come in like manner as they saw Him go into heaven (Acts 1:1-11). We believe it is the privilege and duty of every Christian--to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and to live a holy life, and to be always ready for the return of Jesus, and that, in the meantime, each Christian should Occupy (keep busy in His will, and in His service) till the Lord's return (John 7:37-39; Acts 1:8; Eph. 5:18; Matt. 24:44; Luke 19:13; Titus 2:11-15; 1 Peter 1:13-19).s

The Forum

Since it's inception, the forum here has been many things. A great fellowship, a fellowship of sorts while in it's unorthodox form and fashion often resembling both a battleground and a hospital. This can be both edifying as well as divisive. We hope to address a few of the misconceptions and concerns at the outset so that everyone will be on the same level footing as to what is acceptable and that which is not.

What it is not

It is not a 'chat room'.
It is not a place to bring an agenda regardless of intentions.
It is not a place for promotion of ones self, website or wares.
It is not 'denominational' while gleaning from many.
It is neither legalistic nor 'anything goes'.
It is not a place for politics, politicians, policy's nor particular support thereof. More on this below.*

What it is

It is first and foremost a privilege.
It is a gathering of saints now throughout the world. And that alone may be the most important factor to keep in mind at all times.
It is a place to share, discuss, listen, think and grow into all things in Jesus Christ.
It is bible based.
It is in aim and undergirding Revival. A Revival of God's thought. Of others and lastly, ourselves.
It is a longing for, praying for, a Revival of the same substance that is expressed through the many resources available here.
It is a seeking after the genuine and Sincere.
It is this foundation and focus while fostering a great freedom of discussion within some practical guidelines.


What you can expect

To be challenged unto growth in Christ
To be misunderstood at times.
To misunderstand others.
To be asked questions.
To be in the midst of some very experienced saints, not a handful who have walked with the Lord for many, many years.
To find like hearted Brethren as well as 'likemidnded'.
You will likely at some point be offended.
You will be blessed.
You may have your theology turned inside out and upside down.
You may have yourself exposed in way's you never thought possible by your own words and thoughts as well as by those who care for your souls.
To be prayed for.

What we expect

Conduct, consideration and charity. As illustrative, picture yourself entering a home for the first time. You are a guest. You are polite. You wipe the mud off your shoes before entering. You make an introduction. You carry yourself with respect to your host.

Hopefully, you get the idea here. We have found that hosting a forum has all kinds of inherent difficulties.

Communicating in this manner with so many different cultures, upbringings, education and lack thereof. To add even more weight is the place anyone of us may be in this walk as disciples of the Lord, we all were spiritual 'babes' in Christ at the inception of a new birth, an important reminder that needs to be reflected on often. We must keep well in mind that expression of spiritual matters is often difficult enough, sometimes even impossible. Let us bear with one another with patience and understanding.

What is not tolerated

Slander. Ill-will. Unnecessary accusations, comments.

The issue is one of order rather than control. We allow as much patience as possible for corrections and apologies. Please make your corrections with a follow up reply, rather than by use of the edit function. There has been a misuse of this in the past where whole sections have been removed from an ongoing thread, making it now disconnected, like removing pages from a book.

*Politics

We have found it necessary to curtail political discussion here for a variety of reasons. It is primarily out of step with the manner and thrust of Sermon Index in it's intention and we have found little good to come from an allowance of things based politically into the discussions.

It is inevitable that with an allowance of items and issues effecting us all by that which is happening in this present world that attributes of a political nature will creep in, this is understood. However, we will keep a very close eye on these things and may ask you to stop midstream or lock a posting if in our discretion we feel that it is out of place in the forum.

Conspiracy and Conspiracy Theory

We believe there is certainly a conspiracy afoot, that which is present since the fall of mankind in their enmity with God. What other websites or ministries may have of a variety of present theory as it relates to what the governments of the world are doing is too much in dispute to be presented here. The New World Order and One Government system is understood in a variety of fashion. What we will not allow is unscrupulous and un-scriptural notions and ideals to foster fear and paranoia to the saints. Our trust and yours should be placed firmly in God, not in the conspiracy of the world, the flesh or the devil. We will monitor these things in our best discretion but do not bring in ministries or other agendas devoted to these mandates.

What you can do to help

Be polite. Don't be rude to others.
Keep foremost in your mind the weight of responsibility you have with what the Lord stated;

Mat 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

As well as;

Mat 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

The Lord is in our midst here and this whole resource is dependent on the Holy Spirit by those who have both brought all this forth and we hope by those who participate, first as brethren and as guests\members.

Please, pray.
Pray before you post.
Pray as you write in response.
Pray, and ask the question of the Lord;
"Should I?"
Listen, give yourself a minute.
Pray one last time and pause before you submit.

Try and think of the ramifications of your thoughts and comments. Some things need not to be said. Some things can wait. Some things just as well do need to be addressed, but the manner may add more of a problem than be a help towards correction.

You may find it best to save some things that you have spent a considerable amount of time writing to a file to be brought forth at a different time.

There is a great deal more than could be said. These are all guidelines to make matters beneficial to all. It is a warm welcome we afford to all within these parameters. Make yourself comfortable, but keep your feet off the table. :)

Lastly

Ask questions and do your best to answer questions. Keep well in mind that often times a question is not necessarily pointed, but is truly a question. Just as well, it is especially frowned on to be jostling with each other by way of accusation towards each others intents and motives. Be forthright and honest.

"Play the ball and not the man."

Which translates to the issue being discussed. Keep to this and away from what we may assume someone is thinking. Again, ask a question rather than making an accusation.

A note about personal effrontery and offendedness. We have found since the inception of this site that many any item is misconstrued by accusation and presupposition upon motive and intent. It is far better to assume nothing by way of suspicion nor to accuse without factual information. Better to not accuse at all but in points of biblical doctrine a challenge may be forwarded to our interpretations, do not take it personally and do not make it personal. Control your emotions and keep before you the mandate of humility.

Do keep in mind that the moderators will do their best to discern where and when to intervene and more so that they are your fellow pilgrims and servants, just as fallible as each of us here. "Moderate" your own self and leave the moderating beyond that to those appointed to do so. If you find something that is out of place, that is divisive amongst the brethren, bring it to their attention and they will do their best to address it.

Confession

Yes! We welcome it and desire it. It is not embarrassment to admit when we have faulted or sinned, caused a disturbance, been mean-spirited, proud, but an extreme blessing to the community and before the Lord. No one will be shamed into anything here nor manipulated, but forgiven without equivocation upon repentance. Remember it is not to us that you are owing this when it is warranted but to the Lord first and foremost and then by extension those you have trespassed upon. Admittedly and unfortunately it is a rare thing to hear in these parts and we could but pray for more forthcoming on practical honesty, it builds character and exposes our pride, that most sinister of sins.

Summary

Jesus is Lord.
'We' do hold to a high view of His Majesty.
'We' have no particular creed other than that He be exalted above all.


****************

Community Rules

1. Ensure that your new topics are in the correct forum.

-If your new topic doesn't fit with the description of the forum you're in, do not post it there.
-Posting new topics in the correct forums helps keep the Community organized and helps to keep topics easier to find.
-Topics posted in the wrong forum (as determined by the Moderator Team) will be moved to the appropriate forum.

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6. Do not harass users on the Community, through Private Messages, or e-mail You can be banned for this.

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-Signatures should be kept brief, easy to read, and unobtrusive. You may only have 1 weblink url in it. If the link is inappropriate moderators may remove this ability from the member. And please keep the signatures short within 4-6 lines of text.

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9. Arguing with the Moderator Team over the enforcement of these rules will get you no where.

-We will not contend nor dispute with the unruly.
-If you're told to change the way you're behaving here, you must comply or leave.
-Repeat offenders will be banned
-We ask you to respect the moderators and the site you are visiting.

10. If you have any problems, contact the Administrator by email: [email protected] or make a post in an appropriate forum asking for help. Someone surely will be glad to help you.

11. Please recognize that we are here to serve you and are fallible, unprofitable servants. Do not mistake patience for laxity, we may appear to allow more than is warranted at times in the prayerful hope that some admonishens might take hold. We would lord over no one by legality or a multiplicity of rules while yet maintaining some control over the many that have come here to find meat in due season. We do have lives apart from this forum and cannot possibly be omnipresent, we ask that you keep Him who is ever present always before your thoughts and mind as you conduct yourself here as guest\members.


About all brother and sisters let us love onanother in word and deed. And prefer each other better then ourselves by the Power of Christ.






_________________
Robert Wurtz II

 2012/1/13 6:59Profile
Compton
Member



Joined: 2005/2/24
Posts: 2732


 Re: My Grief over this forum....time to close?

Hello Heydave,

I certainly can relate to your grief over recent topics. It sometimes seems that people are more interested in deconstruction then in building up!

Sermon Index attempts to maintain a welcoming posture towards fellow believers from various denominations and cultures around the world. In this context, it might surprise people to know that the moderators aren't here to regulate everyones doctrine, but to simply keep conversation civil. This posture is not without it's trade offs. For instance, on a personal note, although i visit the forum repeatedly throughout any given day, i refrain from participating in most discussions, specifically because of my role as a moderator.

This posture is also not without it's risks. Over the years, this forum has seen conservatives and liberals, evangelicals and emergents, spirit filled and atheists engage one another...and often with frustrating, trying results. Yet, in the end, those who are more concerned with provoking and challenging, rather then encouraging and feeding, tend to grow distracted and move on.

And along the way, inspite of the ebb and flow of discouraging conversations that can arise here, there are some really good conversations. And along the way, I've met some truly encouraging saints...many of whom I am truly humbled to be friends with:)

Blessings,

Mike


_________________
Mike Compton

 2012/1/13 7:13Profile
mguldner
Member



Joined: 2009/12/4
Posts: 1862
Kansas

 Re: My Grief over this forum....time to close?

Brother Dave,

SI and the Forum are HUGE in content, this being said I would say why read the threads that you don't like to read? There is plenty of other things to read, I found many of the Devotional Thoughts threads are neglected while the controversial ones you are pointing to seem to get the attention. If you don't appreciate the topic ignore them no ones is forcing them upon you. Better yet start up a thread with the Godly topic you desire to discuss.

God BLess,
Matthew


_________________
Matthew Guldner

 2012/1/13 7:26Profile
lindi1208
Member



Joined: 2011/3/8
Posts: 173


 Re:

Heydave

You are not alone in feeling grieved by some of the threads on SI which have been discouraging rather than edifying.Just wanted to say that there are a few threads on here like the ones on mortification, some on devtional thoughts which have been a blessing. Also the miracales that follow the plow and current events are good threads to follow or read as they allow us to serve one another through prayers.

I agree with Mike that where sin abounds grace abounds much more. We need to pray and ask for wisdom and discernment from above so as to be able to hold fast to what is good.

Those who are led by the spirit will be in agreement with Him and those sheep will not be led astray.They are mature and rooted in their faith they will not be moved by false teachings or heresies.

Just continue to seek the Lord and he will guide you in the right path. To fellowship with other believers is essential for every believer. We are not perfect so where ever you go you will find things that will grieve you but the joy of the Lord will be strength. Trust in Him and ask Him to help use your grief for His Glory through Spirit led intercession for the saints.

love in Christ

Lindi


_________________
Lindi

 2012/1/13 7:40Profile
rufnrust
Member



Joined: 2010/1/9
Posts: 261
Indiana

 Re: My Grief over this forum....time to close?

Hey HeyDave. Be an overcomer and speak life as the Lord gives you grace to shine. It sounds like you have a heart for truth so speak it with life and live in the joy of the Lord!

Russell


_________________
Russell

 2012/1/13 11:05Profile
MrBillPro
Member



Joined: 2005/2/24
Posts: 3422
Texas

 Re:

Quote:
Compton.....I certainly can relate to your grief over recent topics. It sometimes seems that people are more interested in deconstruction then in building up!



I agree! I posted a thread a month ago or so, "Can We Talk About Jesus" https://www.sermonindex.net/modules/newbb/viewtopic.php?topic_id=42109&forum=35&11

11 folks wanted to say something about Jesus, 372 did not.
IMO, a lot of threads here have become agenda based, without God in mind. If you don't believe me just read some of them. I started the thread "Can We Talk About Jesus" just so we might all talk about the person that brought most of us here, 11 responses? go figure!


_________________
Bill

 2012/1/13 11:22Profile
MaryJane
Member



Joined: 2006/7/31
Posts: 3057


 Re: My Grief over this forum....time to close?

Greetings dave

I wanted to say that if my recent post to two of the threads I believe you are speaking about caused you grief then please forgive me. It was not my intention to grieve any fellow believer. In the one thread that you created I really did think that you were not aware of the legalist thread. So again I hope I did not cause offense. I am truly sorry if I did...


God bless
mary

 2012/1/13 11:39Profile
roadsign
Member



Joined: 2005/5/2
Posts: 3777


 Re:

Quote:
grief



Heydey, I think I can relate. I know the experience of grief in this setting. Yet those times when my grief had flooded over, I have also received tender ministry here. Then I realize that God cares about my burdens. But he is also moving me on: Fellow SIers - even through the exasperating moments, serve as God’s grace builders - God’s means of strengthening my listening ability, my thinking skills, my patience, and my compassion. From that perspective, good can come out of our discussions - as stressful as it may be at times.

And oh ... if we could share a coffee at Starbucks – we may even find ourselves enjoying each other’s company.


Quote:
I refrain from participating in most discussions, specifically because of my role as a moderator.


I miss your words of wisdom, brother Compton!

Diane


_________________
Diane

 2012/1/13 12:22Profile









 Re:


HeyDave wrote ... "Over the last week or so we have had postings that call those who who call sin what it is 'legalists'; we have had a total disregard for what scripture teaches us about the difference between men an women in favor of 'experience' or 'what feels right' and now we have posts that deny the very Word of God!"



Last night I wanted to reply to this thread when I saw you post it. Now I'm glad that I didn't.

I was going to say last night, 'be encouraged' - there are Brothers defending these topics that you've mentioned and there were - but the only thread that was locked was because of one man who is a bit off in his understanding on the OLD TESTAMENT Law - or was it just his way of expressing his understanding - I'm not sure - but the topics that you mention go on and well, it's seems they're going to keep in the direction that you specifically pointed out.

When bringing divisions and getting followings and getting cliches going is more important than unity and loving each other - that is the 'heart' of the problem - not merely beliefs. I don't see that to be "In Spirit and in truth".

Has The Holy Spirit indeed 'authored' these threads?, is what I also asked on the first thread that pushed the limits of going beyond anything that's written - but when other threads were opened on the other topic of our very foundation - what the Apostles were Assigned to write after His Resurrection for us - and the 'subtlety' of the wording could blind-side a new believer on these topics and deceive - I believe any good that was written by our Brothers up until yesterday has been drowned out.

Last night I felt encouraged - today is another day.
Praying with you and the others that you mention in your opening sentence.


I know now why the LORD kept drumming "many shall be offended" into my mind a week ago - Offended "because of The Word."

The Emerging Church is budding or actually flowering.

 2012/1/13 12:43





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