My Thoughts On Things
Apostolic Friends Forum, when I originally joined, was a place I could come and bash liberals, and feel I was doing the will of God. I saw this place as a liberal haven, where the backsliders would talk about their carnality and worldliness. And, I felt it was my job to trash them down until they repent.
Much has changed in me over the years, including my own perception. Things I once saw as backslidden and liberal, I have come to see as godly and living in the freedom of Christ. The ‘conservative’ stances I once took I now see as overbearing and unnecessary. But, I see AFF as a place where ideas can openly be cast across and discussion is made over issues and beliefs.
I still also see AFF as a place where I experienced the love of God during the darkest days of my life, and where many showed me great and undying love. And, as my vision has changed in this, so have I.
Many ask why the cons have left AFF. I have heard reasoning from they are tired of their views being challenged to down right disgust with someone having differing opinions over issues of standards and salvation. In all this, though, I have seen the same religious spirit which segregates the Body in the Church on AFF.
The libs (I am a moderate lib myself) believe that cons are just as saved as we are, but they are in the bondage of religion and legalism. This does not negate their salvation, but makes us want to speak to them about coming out from that. The cons, however, do not see us as saved. They do see us damned to Hell over clothing and hair. Because of that, they separate themselves from people who will not go into what they see as bondage.
Please, please do not take this as a shot at anyone. These are my thoughts, and are being spoken in compassion and love to all.
The Body in general is in disunity. One group segregates from another, and there is no unity. AFF is no different it seems. So, what to do?
Those who stay should keep on and do what they do. If some want to leave, let them. The door is always open for them to come back and fellowship with us again, seeing how AFF does not delete memberships. If they desire to stay away, that is their decision. But, I would hope they reconsider and return so we can have honest, civil, and open discussions on the topics that affect one and all today.
Just my thoughts.
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