BrotherTony

Not a problem, my friend. Just remember, if it's not a doctrinal difference or deviation, it is a secondary or tertiary issue and shouldn't become a problem. I trust you won't let it become one.?

It's possible he has a different belief on altar calls, but, that doesn't make him wrong. There is no scriptural directive to give such a call. It's a man-made, man-imposed choice. So, why is it "sad" that this is how the church, or at least this pastor has decided to lead? I would say you should stay unless the Lord leads you to leave. This is not a doctrinal or moral issue. You must decide "which hill to die on." I would hope that this wouldn't be it.

This article is from a Calvinistic viewpoint, and most here don't subscribe to Calvin's positions.

Nothing wrong with being on Facebook.

I've been in churches with congregations as large as 4,500 people, and in ones that have had 30-45 people. I don't recall any of them experiencing problems with seating. We did have those who liked their particular seat of choice, but it never became confrontational. And those churches that were over 800 people were ALL IFB churches.

I thought maybe you would want to parachute in! LOL

Apples and oranges. America has not changed it's name. It may have lost it's ranking in the world, but what super power hasn't after the passing of time?

It's possible that some are removing the name for the wrong reasons, ie wanting to become more liberal. But I have to say that many have finally realized that they've implemented a lot of man-made rules and traditions in the place of the Bible and are trying to distance themselves from their past. There's nothing wrong with that. After God called and changed people's lives he often changed their names for a fresh start.

I love lamb as well... but, like you, I have a hard time finding a reasonably priced portion. The portions and selection are so small we can't afford it. I like haddock as well, but, it's hard to find here in Tennessee. Tonight we had pork loin chops, asparagus, and macaroni and cheese. We're going to finish up the last of the chocolate cream cheese pie for dessert.

I can wholeheartedly agree with that. Personally I would PREFER they keep the name regardless of what has or hasn't happened in the past. It keeps them accountable. But, remember, I am a realist.

Having been in at least three churches that had serious sexual and other scandals, I can't say I blame those who have changed their names. As you yourself would agree, being autonomous they have every right to do so if they choose. There is nothing in scripture compelling them to use that particular moniker, especially not to please others. To be fair, your comparison "doesn't fly." LOL

Is there anything wrong with removing the name "Baptist?" Of course not. Far too many people try to read something nefarious into this process. Some vote to keep it while others don't. As long as they still hold to the fundamentals of the Bible, the faith, and are preaching the gospel, I believe many are making much ado about nothing and making a denominational name close to being described as a "god." I know this won't be a popular position to have, but, I'm a Christian first and a Baptist second.

Nobody can become a true Christian without repenting of their sin and acknowledging their need for a savior. The only way we're told to judge whether or not they are Christians is by the fruit they bring forth. Question...are you saying that the work of the Holy Spirit is of little or no value? I hope I'm misunderstanding what you are trying to convey here. The people don't necessarily have to be "shown" anything. Just hearing the Word is enough for the Spirit to convict of sin.

For us this evening, it will be chicken tenders and potato logs. My wife said she's been wanting them for the past week, so tonight's the night. ? We've got a chocolate cream cheese pie for dessert. Delicious!

Even with an altar call many churches still don't "minister to a new believer." They're happy just to have a name on the rolls. What would stop someone from being ministered to? Most who would come to know the Lord without an altar call usually end up letting others know that they have accepted the Lord. To think otherwise would be to be limiting the work of the HOLY SPIRIT in ones life.

I've been in churches that employ both methods, and I have witnessed both growing. It's not an altar call that saves. I have seen this method used and manipulated and in return has given the churches many false converts. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages. Each congregation must choose for themselves which method to implement.

We just finished up a roast that my wife had put in the slow cooker day before yesterday. It was delicious with potatoes, celery, carrots, and a rich gravy. We both cook, and cook well. I'm thankful for that.

I can't say that men being better cooks is factual. In fact, in my own experience, it's not. I cook slowly, but, so does my wife. Both of my parents cooked slowly, as did all of their parents. My whole family, on all four sides, is choc full of great cooks. That could be why my family nearly purchased a well known restaurant in Augusta, Georgia.

Personally, I think the new logo for OnlineBaptist.com looks terrific! It's very professional and inviting. Thanks for all y'all do! ?

I agree that it's hard for the rural churches. We go to a rural church and we have at least six men on CC. We have two who open carry.

I have been a member of two different churches where the pastor has asked for a cut in or a suspension of their pay. So, TGL, your statement is very much in error. One was in Wisconsin, and the other was in Georgia.

A strong relationship with the police never hurts, and I have to disagree that it doesn't mean anything. Without cooperation from law enforcement a church could have a very rough time. My b-i-l works security at a big SBC church and crime in that area of town is rampant. With the presence of law enforcement, around that eight block radius is far less than what it is when they are not there.

Nah. Not at all. You just gave him a "scholarly" lecture on something he already knew, trying to lift yourself above someone else. This has been your MO ever since you've been here. And to top it off, you're still trying to justify yourself. You DID judge Jim's typo, and if you can't see that, I don't know how we can take you seriously.

Your are constantly trying to play the victim. All I asked about was why all the bloviating over a typo. You're still bloviating. And just like trying to correct an administrator over a typo, which is "judgemental" in and of itself, you're being judgemental of me and are trying to come off looking like a poor, wounded soul. People here aren't buying your act... this dishing it out and not being able to take it.. ?

Thanks! ???