In closing I would like to first thank, Vulcanlogic, for agreeing to moderate this discussion and also to commend him for having done so with diligence and grace. I would also like to thank my fellow participants, all of whom gave thoughtful, sincere, and well-worded contributions.
We would be well to remember that the origin of this debate thread was in response to calls for civil, temperate debate without vulgarity or insult. It also felt very liberating to be able to freely quote Holy Scripture. If nothing else, this thread has demonstrated that the Christian members of this forum are at least capable of doing so despite significant doctrinal differences and despite often failing to do so elsewhere (looking in mirror). This thread can remain as an example to all and a reminder for us Christians that we can all do better.
As for me personally, this discussion has helped me to clarify my own thoughts. But participation has come at a steep price. I have lost more than one friend…people who felt that my desire promote and protect the Gospel of Jesus Christ reduced them to mere targets of proselytizing. If anything that was a costly lesson about how nonbeliever’s feelings of being judged can easily overshadow our goodwill and brotherly concern for them. I dearly love the Lord, desire that all may know the His Grace, and want to serve Him with whatever gifts I may have but it seems I have become a stumbling block for too many.
While this is not a goodbye, I have truly enjoyed knowing all of you and look forward to meeting you in the New Jerusalem to enjoy the Life Eternal.
We would be well to remember that the origin of this debate thread was in response to calls for civil, temperate debate without vulgarity or insult. It also felt very liberating to be able to freely quote Holy Scripture. If nothing else, this thread has demonstrated that the Christian members of this forum are at least capable of doing so despite significant doctrinal differences and despite often failing to do so elsewhere (looking in mirror). This thread can remain as an example to all and a reminder for us Christians that we can all do better.
As for me personally, this discussion has helped me to clarify my own thoughts. But participation has come at a steep price. I have lost more than one friend…people who felt that my desire promote and protect the Gospel of Jesus Christ reduced them to mere targets of proselytizing. If anything that was a costly lesson about how nonbeliever’s feelings of being judged can easily overshadow our goodwill and brotherly concern for them. I dearly love the Lord, desire that all may know the His Grace, and want to serve Him with whatever gifts I may have but it seems I have become a stumbling block for too many.
While this is not a goodbye, I have truly enjoyed knowing all of you and look forward to meeting you in the New Jerusalem to enjoy the Life Eternal.
<insert profound quote here>
