Repent or Resign? - Page 2

Faithfulservant · 05-15-2005, 04:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by I, Brian

Nothing wrong at all - the only time it might be an issue is when be used as a statement against other people's faith, on non-Christian faith boards. This particular topic is about a Christian chruch anyway, so it would be difficult to justify any reason to disallow mention scripture.

It also seems that what you're saying is that there were deeper issues of disruption at the church on political grounds, and that the preacher attempting to remove a number was primarily on the grounds of their past behaviour, and that these people also just happened to share a particular political affiliation?

That would seem to be the case but there were other articles written by the "other side" that claimed that it wasnt about what the pastor said... it was actually an ongoing thing between the new pastor and some members of the church. and they used that particular thing to use in revenge after they were removed from the church. What else would get that sort of reaction from the media and advocacy groups. Thats what I was saying.. there are 2 sides to every story.

Awaiting_the_fifth · 05-15-2005, 11:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Faithfulservant

there are 2 sides to every story.

indeed, but every myth has a basis in fact.

InLove · 05-16-2005, 04:07 PM

Here is what the Associated Baptist Press reported, if anyone would like to read it. I found it a little less focused on sensationalism, and more on the issue:

http://www.abpnews.com/news/news_detail.cfm?NEWS_ID=675

and the "read more" link:

http://www.abpnews.com/news/news_detail.cfm?NEWS_ID=669

InPeace,
InLove

Awaiting_the_fifth · 05-16-2005, 10:21 PM

And thats from the Baptist press! Its pretty damning as I read it.

InLove · 05-17-2005, 04:30 PM

Well--"damning" might not be the right word, ATF (heh-heh)

No--I truly do forgive this pastor. He is human, and humans do not always act in wisdom. Most of all, I feel for the members of this church. Ministries have been interrupted, people have lost their long-time place of worship over this. I kept wondering what the "disruptive behavior" of "the nine" had been. Turns out, that it was only that they (plus about 40 others) of whom at least one had been a member almost half a century before Chan came there, just did not want their church to focus on partisan politics. They knew what would happen. It seems to me that the "disruptive behavior" came from the pulpit. And, yes, Chan did the right thing by stepping down, albeit it too late for many. I think it would have been better if the members could have worked it out between themselves without "appealing to Rome", but I am convinced that, at least this time, the media was not the enemy here. Perhaps now that this story has been told, many pastors and church members will re-think where they are going with the message they preach and believe in.

I live in a hotspot of partisan politics, and the push for Bush has crept into every nook and cranny, including my church. I go on with my ministry there, and say nothing, because I love the people and do not want to cause problems. I have no problem whatsoever with a message geared toward saving the lives of the unborn--that can be done without telling someone how to vote. The same goes for caring for the elderly and protecting the environment for future generations.

InPeace,
InLove

Awaiting_the_fifth · 05-17-2005, 11:15 PM

InLove,

It seems to me that you are what Jesus had in mind when he started the whole thing off. In a moment you make me see the absurdity of my righteous indignation.

I maintain that his imposition of politics onto spirituality was wrong and an abuse of his position, but now he has stepped down, you are right, he should be forgiven.

Still, I worry about the rest of the congregation who enthusiastically voted out the roudy democrats. So many people so unwilling to accept any other point of view.

Jack Halyard · 05-20-2005, 06:44 PM

Amen to InLove and I'll second what Awaiting had to say. HEAR HEAR!

InLove · 05-21-2005, 02:05 PM

Hi and Peace--

Wow--thanks ATF and Jack--what a beautiful thing to say to someone.

And to think I was a little nervous about saying the things I said--it's the sort of stuff that can really break up a backyard barbecue party! Glad I can express what I believe here. (And ATF, don't feel so bad--believe me, when I first heard about the issue, I was really, really upset.)

InPeace,
InLove

lunamoth · 05-21-2005, 02:51 PM

Dear InLove,

Your posts are really blossoming in the fora

. So gald you are here.

peace,
lunamoth

InLove · 05-23-2005, 04:12 AM

Thanks, Luna

. Guess I am learning--I love this place.

And I always look forward to the resident scientific, yet always inspired viewpoint you offer.

InPeace,
InLove

Phyllis Sidhe_Uaine · 05-23-2005, 08:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by InLove

Hi and Peace--

Wow--thanks ATF and Jack--what a beautiful thing to say to someone.

And to think I was a little nervous about saying the things I said--it's the sort of stuff that can really break up a backyard barbecue party! Glad I can express what I believe here. (And ATF, don't feel so bad--believe me, when I first heard about the issue, I was really, really upset.)

InPeace,
InLove

Just a backyard barbecue? Think "bar"/"pub"/"tavern". Can you say "What a mess"? I knew you could.

Phyllis Sidhe_Uaine

InLove · 05-23-2005, 08:40 PM

LOL--Phyllis--that is why they have "bouncers"