I think we could start by being graceful, showing grace rather than
sarcasm, being more concerned about loving our neighbor or our enemy than we
are about pointing out errors in what they believe. I am not suggesting
that you adopt their position or that you compromise what you believe.
I agree with you about the sarcasm Terry - however
the above kind of grace could also be perceived as
"being patronizing" especially since it is not possible to give anyone a
hug or a glass of cold water.
I am saying that if you cannot agree, consider that they are being
sincere even if they are in error, and with that in mind, very politely ask
questions that will help them understand better as well as help you understand
them better.
I don't know how to do that Terry - I think Izzy is
much better at it than me but sometimes her questions are
misunderstood and she is accused or less than godly
motives. What's wrong with believing the best of ppl
and questioning and examining doctrine?
Try to remember that your opinion and three dollars will get you a
whopper at Burger King. Do not over estimate the value of your
contribution to the conversation. You do not have to jump on every word
someone else speaks, and when you do, it simply creates a situation where
everyone digs in their heels and butts heads and everyone ends up defending
their position instead of trying to understand what the other guy is trying to
say.
FWIW in this group I don't believe there can be a
conversation without some butting of heads. What is believing one thing in the
heart and speaking something else out of the mouth called again? It's
either butt heads or be silent.
Jesus, Peter and Paul spoke a great deal about loving others. They
said very little about winning a debate.
For what it's worth.
Terry
I don't know about all that Terry. Peter and
Paul didn't always agree and Paul and Barnabus parted ways over
John Mark - and these are just the few instances we
know about .... Nothing wrong with honest discussion so
far as I'm concerned and some communication is better
than
none.
============================================================
Judy
Taylor wrote:
We
are all proudly proclaiming how right we are, but to claim that we are
doing it in love would be a bald faced lie. The fault does not
lie with you alone as I have been as guilty as anyone, and it is not
only the fault of the Fundies as the Libs can be just as mean spirited
as well.
How would you say one is to love over the internet
Terry?
