i tried to start a support group on the 12-step subforum but it quickly became a place where one would be told how to deal with the problem, instead of allowing the abused to identify the problem and work out their own solutions.

so i propose an off-site support group where we can identify the problem and learn "mature" :), Christlike responses to the abusers.

one thing that the we-will-identify-and-tell-you-how-to-deal-with-the-problem contributors were correct in is that abusers will not change, nor can we make them change.

but we dont have to sink to their level and become like them. :)

It helps when people will clarify their view.

And also answer when people point out inconsistencies, that that also be clarified, then we would avoid this "I am being misrepresented charge".

I myself have been accused of being a legalist, but despite many requests to show how the individual has come to that conclusion, there is nothing but silence.

Personally, I have no problem if someone says "you are a legalist because of this...".

But when people just keep saying:

"You are a legalist."
"You are a legalist."
"You are a legalist."

With no discussion or rationale for the accusation, then it can never be addressed and to be honest is quite boring at best.

I would personally love those that often wave that accusation around to start a thread and explain their rationale.

But sadly I suspect it is little more than "accusation" for arguments sake as the same individuals always seem to be in the eye of the storm...


My suggestion on this forum, would be that for those that do not believe obedience is a necessity in the plan of salvation, leave those alone that do, and let them discuss the issues in peace.

Some of us here do believe in a "victorious" Christian walk.

And we want to discuss it.

But every thread where this is broached is usually swamped in either:

"You are a legalist."

Or:

"Paul was not inspired."

Or:

"You only need the words of..."

Keeping any topic on track seems an impossibility...

And most just end up in a debate, because a few will not respect others beliefs, and try to drown out every discussion with the same sad, weary charges...

Let those that want to discuss these things discuss them in peace...

And try to contribute something positive, instead of constant negativity.

That would be my suggestion.


Mark...

yes, mark. rather hard to see it in ourselves, isnt it? :)

I second that dgrimm.

pk

It would appear so Teresa...

As the posts attacking certain moderators would indicate.

The term they or them is a shotgun blast that covers much ground. As I recall, as Christians we abide by something Christlike, irregardless of whether they or them are following that advice.

"For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
“ Who committed no sin,
Nor was deceit found in His mouth”;

who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed."
1 Peter 2:21-24 NKJV

This is posted for whoever believes this Word can be fulfilled in their lives, by the Person Who asks for its' fulfillment. For those who believe it to be true, that Jesus would not ask of us anything He is not willing and able to bring to pass, I feel safe in your presence, whether you are a legalist, democrat, communist, Muslim, or Christian.

Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]--Ephesians 3:20 AMP Parenthesis brackets theirs LHC
Blessings!

I was going to third it but then realized I had already seconded it.

REDWOOD

if YOU want to Third it that is ok with me

hahahahaha hehehehehehe hohohohohoho

dgrimm60

thank you for sharing that. :)