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ginnyrose
Member



Joined: 2004/7/7
Posts: 7534
Mississippi

 Re:

Quote:
The quality of the forums for a public arena has been nothing but a miricale of blessing in the midst of a crooked and depraved internet and a christian internet full of worldly values and talk.



Amen! and Amen!

I have checked out the comments on secular sites and so many are so horrible. People get so angry; always assume the worst; do not read other people's post correctly, accuse them falsely of saying things they never meant. Mean, terrible mean! and then I think of how nice SI is I am thankful for a forum a person can go to and be edified!

Thanks, mods! and God bless!

ginnyrose


_________________
Sandra Miller

 2011/6/29 17:29Profile
ccchhhrrriiisss
Member



Joined: 2003/11/23
Posts: 4779


 Re:

That is a very good post, Greg.

Today, I saw a headline today that said that "social networking" websites have finally overtaken pornography websites as drawing the most traffic on the internet. While I suppose that we might be inclined to think that ANYTHING is better than the evils of pornography, I think that the draw of social networks is demonstrative of the emptiness and loneliness of the people of this world.

Last year, I had a pop-up advertisement while shopping around for plane tickets. It was a movie trailer for the film THE SOCIAL NETWORK about the creation of the Facebook website. I was amazed at the words of the song that was being played.

Quote:

I don't care if it hurts
I want to have control
I want a perfect body
I want a perfect soul
I want you to notice
When I'm not around
You're so very special
I wish I was special



This seems to be the cry of the people of this world. They are attracted to one another and deeply desire the attraction and attention of others. It is the new religion of this world -- the one where John Lennon "imagined" that there was no Heaven, no Hell, no religion. They imagine that this world is all that we have...and that the people are the most important thing. This is in direct contradiction to the truth that God -- and a relationship with Him -- is the central and most important thing in this life.

I read in the news this week that Facebook now has over 750 Million active users around the world. There is only about 300 million people -- elderly, adults, children and babies -- in the United States!

Facebook's headquarters are just a few blocks from our home. My wife and I like to take walks in the evening or morning, and we sometimes walk by the Facebook headquarters. I often wonder if they are even aware of the vast implications of the organization that they control. They have the ear of politicians, presidents and many others. President Obama has visited the area several times in the last year and has met with Facebook's founder a few times.

Why am I saying this?

The forums at SermonIndex are NOT meant to be a mere Christian social networking website. They aren't meant to replace the personal encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25) that we are supposed to give and receive at a local level. It is not a place where we are supposed to "do God a favor" and vigorously propagate a particular stand on a controversial and sectarian doctrinal issue.

The purpose of this website is summed up by Greg in one word: REVIVAL. It is a desire to provoke an awakening in the people of God through the presentation of messages that many men and women of God throughout audio history have provided. As Brother Mike Balog once said, SermonIndex is a "gem" in the wilderness of this world through the provision of strong messages that provoke, encourage, challenge and serve as a wake-up call to the Body of Christ.

Greg and the moderators have clarified this in their description of the forums. This might be a bit lengthy, but it is worth reading again.

Quote:

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.




Personally, I find a great deal of encouragement, challenge and spiritual growth through participation in the forums. One thing that is quite apparent is that we are all different. We come from different backgrounds, denominations (or non-denominations), beliefs, physical locations and stages of growth in our spiritual lives. Yet, despite our differences, most of us are extremely desirous for a move of God in our lives and in the greater Body of Christ.


_________________
Christopher

 2011/6/29 17:33Profile
sarahsdream
Member



Joined: 2011/6/16
Posts: 183


 Re:

I am not sure whether posting a lot or a little is a sign of spirituality or not (That seems like a carnal judgment). The conclusion I have come to is that it is always about content because I look at all the major posters and they happen to be on this thread saying that less is more spiritual. So there is a disconnect, isn't there? Sermonindex, rookie, abideinhim, Krispy, ccchhhrrriiisss, and many more on this forum (with over 2500 posts) would now be known as the most unspiritual because of their volume of postings. And those who post little have now been elevated to the status of "spiritual". So, I don't think I can agree with this. A forum is for posting and communicating and that is what you do. So, it's about content, to me.

With love,
Sarah

 2011/6/30 14:04Profile
Oracio
Member



Joined: 2007/6/26
Posts: 2094
Whittier CA USA

 Re:

Quote:
I am not sure whether posting a lot or a little is a sign of spirituality or not (That seems like a carnal judgment). The conclusion I have come to is that it is always about content because I look at all the major posters and they happen to be on this thread saying that less is more spiritual. So there is a disconnect, isn't there? Sermonindex, rookie, abideinhim, Krispy, ccchhhrrriiisss, and many more on this forum (with over 2500 posts) would now be known as the most unspiritual because of their volume of postings. And those who post little have now been elevated to the status of "spiritual". So, I don't think I can agree with this. A forum is for posting and communicating and that is what you do. So, it's about content, to me.



Just had to say a hearty Amen to that post!


_________________
Oracio

 2011/6/30 14:27Profile
Renoncer
Member



Joined: 2010/6/26
Posts: 483


 Re:

This thread is a good call for repentance. Now, how shall I respond? Shall I grieve the Holy Spirit, or submit to Him?

I confess that I needed to read these convicting comments. The Lord has recently convicted me that I need to be careful about slander; i.e., I must repent of this sinful behavior. Praise the Lord for His discipline!

 2011/6/30 14:32Profile
ccchhhrrriiisss
Member



Joined: 2003/11/23
Posts: 4779


 Re:

Hi Sarah,

I don't think that anyone is arguing that LESS is necessarily BETTER. Rather, like you said, it is more about the CONTENT (and often, more specifically, the spirit behind the content) that matters most.

I think that the point is to be careful about the content and spirit behind our posts. It is a forum...but not one that was created as an avenue to propagate a specific ideology that might conflict with or differ from what the ministry (SermonIndex) intended.

Nor do I think that the forums were created to be argumentative or to allow one person or group to present their views on a subject that is oft-debated among believers as if they are the ONLY views that matter.

So, yes, I agree that it is about content. However, it isn't JUST about content. It is about the spirit and attitude by which that content is presented. Is such content presented in a manner of humility and meekness, or is our presentation riddled with pride and antagonism?

Too often, I think, the latter is the case. I know that it has been true for me. This is why I believe that the Scriptures urge us to be "swift to hear, slow to speak and slow to wrath" (James 1:19).

That said: I must say that I have been extremely encouraged, challenged and blessed with insight from my experiences on these forums for about eight years.

Yes, there have been times of doctrinal conflict. There have also been times where some well-meaning person would be so incensed during a discussion as to label me a "heretic" or some other opinionated descriptor of what they felt my beliefs or eternal status might be. Those things often hurt. However, those experiences -- as ugly or misguided as they may be -- still serve as times of personal introspection.

The vast majority of my time in the SermonIndex forums has been encouraging and helpful during my journey with Christ and my personal spiritual growth. For that, I am exceedingly grateful!


_________________
Christopher

 2011/6/30 14:52Profile
Oracio
Member



Joined: 2007/6/26
Posts: 2094
Whittier CA USA

 Re:

Quote:
So, yes, I agree that it is about content. However, it isn't JUST about content. It is about the spirit and attitude by which that content is presented. Is such content presented in a manner of humility and meekness, or is our presentation riddled with pride and antagonism?



Brother, I agree with you that we should shun fleshly pride and antagonism and seek to reflect humility and meekness. However, I also believe that there are times when a sharp rebuke is needed from true believers to others. And I am not too sure if a forum like this would never be a right place for that kind of thing. I know that one of my strong characteristics is being very blunt or frank. That sometimes leads me to stick my foot in my mouth. But at other times I believe the Lord has used it in a way that honors Him. The bottom line for me is to be led by the Spirit through prayer and the Word. If we stay close to Christ we will be sensitive to the Spirit's leading.


_________________
Oracio

 2011/6/30 15:24Profile
mikey2
Member



Joined: 2011/5/5
Posts: 112


 Re:

Mat 21:15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,

Mat 21:16 And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise?

 2011/6/30 22:41Profile
davym
Member



Joined: 2007/5/22
Posts: 326


 Re:

Hi Sarah


Quote:
I am not sure whether posting a lot or a little is a sign of spirituality or not (That seems like a carnal judgment). The conclusion I have come to is that it is always about content because I look at all the major posters and they happen to be on this thread saying that less is more spiritual. So there is a disconnect, isn't there?



This logic is interesting. I think it is flawed slightly because it doesn't take into account the length of time somebody has been a member. e.g. 2500 posts over a period of 1 or 2 years is a lot different than the same over a period of 5 or 6 years.



Quote:
Unfortunately, there is a direct correlation between high quantity and low quality in this place. People who post rapidly and abundantly very rarely exhibit spiritual wisdom and edification, even when quoting scripture. The power of a post to impart the life of Christ is normally not present in the posts of a forum busybody. The authority of God is certainly not present in wrangling and debating and opinionating. Such behaviour imparts a certain barreness, a dryness - again, regardless of how prolifically scripture is provided.



This is tremendously wise advice and it shouldn't be lost.

Too often there are reactive posts with little thought of the consequences. This forum shouldn't be treated the same way the world treats an internet forum or social networking site. There is too much at stake. Young Christians especially browse this forum and are in the process of maturing. Let's not discourage them with our thoughtlessness and eagerness to 'make a point'.

We should keep the Judgment Seat before our eyes. Sadly, it's not a reality in many believers lives (something I find quite disturbing). They become a little law unto themselves and start pontificating on subjects they know little about. This is the height of foolishness and can only bring forth death no matter how 'sophisticated' their arguments may seemingly be.



David




_________________
David

 2011/7/1 5:05Profile









 Re:

How many books has John MacArthur published?

I rest my case.

We are using man's logic and thinking to determine things about people's spirituality... and that is to left to God and God alone.

Any one of us can be very unspiritual on this forum. I'm a perfect example. At the same time tho this forum has been a great source of encouragement and fellowship. Many people have grown in their walk because of how God used the people on this forum.

There are going to be some bad apples now and then, just like any gathering of people. And sometimes each one of us will act like a bad apple.

One thing I know though... we need to stop with the judgementalism and blanket statements. Should we all need to repent from time to time? Absolutely, and let me be the first! But should some make statements like what have been made here about other people's spirituality (people they have never even met face to face or heard their voice before)? God forbid.

Leave that part up to God who knows each one's heart... and not just their email address.

Krispy

 2011/7/1 7:41





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