Brothers and sisters in Christ. I sincerely ask that everyone try to tone down the rhetoric being exchanged between Protestants (although I don't like that term much.......but, ok) and our Brothers and Sisters who are Catholic. Seriously, it is not a good example of what we should be doing on a Christian Forum. I know everyone HAS THE RIGHT TO DO SO, I'm just asking if we can forego the right to do so and replace it with some semblance of Christian civility.
I understand all the differences between the two ideologies, but, even so, these differences do not justify the sort of rhetoric that takes place from time to time. Given that this day I have been attacked by two people on the Catholic forum when my only intent was to extend the hand of Christian fellowship, I believe the hatfilled rhetoric seems to be an uncontrolable flood both ways. I am severely disapointed by the comments directed towards me on the Catholic forum and while I am in no way angry, I am very sad that such attitudes should be displayed on a Christian forum. I also understand that they believe/feel that they have been subjected to the same kind of rhetoric and this (from some of the comments I've read) is sadly true as well.
I don't know why such disrespectful speech is necessary, I truly don't. However, when it reaches a point that reasonable adults cannot freely exchange beliefs, comments, ideas without engaging in such rhetoric, then I have to wonder about the state of Christianity.................this type of rhetoric does not serve God, nor does it reflect in a positive way on those who engage in it or on their particular Church.
YES, THIS IS MY OPINION ONLY, and I may well have people lining up on both sides to take shots at me for suggesting that we should strive to find ways to engage in respectful Christian fellowship, and, if so, then that will have to be. We don't have to justify such rhetoric with "he started it, no - he started it." We can JUST STOP IT! PLEASE? Is it possible to exhibit Christian love and fellowship towards one another in spite of theological ideology?
Please, at least consider this request. Maybe even a short "cease-fire" of a few days?
God bless you all...................