Drive-By Commentsdon't hit and run post; make the case, honor the rules, and engage

I have a great appreciation for the internet and thus, the blogosphere. It is an excellent tool for communicating truth; and in specific, the biblical worldview on all matters of life and godliness. It is the new media; up to date information; interactive; and provides instant verification of facts, knowledge and assertions foreign to previous generations.

The blogosphere doesn't allow someone to hide behind the convenience of an ivory tower self-protectionism (old school media). All are fair game; all are venerable. This is not a place for cowards or the too sensitive. If you're going to state your views and make a case on any number of issues be prepared to be challenged, affirmed, scrutinized, scorned, given the occasional cheap shot, passed around the blogosphere in forums, discussion boards, and chat rooms.

But as Christians, we have a higher standard than that to uphold, don't we? We are here representing Christ and His truth. We must watch our life and doctrine closely; instruct in sound doctrine and refute those who contradict; and to speak the truth in love. I really do like this venue for the exchange of ideas between Christians, the advancement of the gospel, and dialoging from a clear biblical worldview.

But as with all great media tools, there are some who abuse it and make it difficult for the whole. Because of some people lately that have not complied with the spirit nor the rules of this blog, they have forced me to reevaluate the rules of engagement that I originally listed to insure and protect the integrity of this site. These rules were established in order to promote and further Christian discussion from a biblical worldview and to provide an atmosphere where in these familiar words we can pursue: "in the essentials, unity; in the nonessentials, liberty; and in all things charity."

If you have not read the rules of engagement on this blog before, take a moment to familiarize yourself with them. I am listing them below so no one can say that "they were not aware" or didn't know the meaning of the word "anonymous."

95% of you have respected this blog, its host, and the orthodox theological/biblical views presented here and I do apologize for having to put you through these unnecessary hoops. I appreciate your patience and understanding and hope that I will not have to address this issue again.

Rules of Engagement:
1. Keep on topic--this is not a chat room.

2. No gratuitous cursing--our speech should be seasoned with grace.

3. No character assassinations by making unwarranted slurs about ones personal life.

4. No anonymous posting allowed. For those who are "confused" about what "no anonymous posting" means let me help you: you must fill out and complete the Blogger bio form on all the essentials completely (first name only is acceptable-last name can be included at your own discretion, valid email, etc.) AND, you may only post under one name at a time--no multiple "nicks."

5.. No posting in "book form;" say what you need to say in a reasonable length

6. All posts must be in the form of an actual comment; no, "links only" comment allowed

7. No drive-by posting allowed. Say what you will, but be ready to be challenged and to support your views and/or claims; or simply do not post.

8. Titus 1:9 says, "instruct in sound doctrine and refute those who contradict." Though I allow diverse discussion to take place here, unsound doctrine will be confronted fearlessly and error will be refuted relentlessly when it is expressed.

9. Any current posts, past posts, and/or all future posts in any article(s) will be deleted at my sole discretion that are not honoring to the above

10. Lastly, all that is written here is to bring glory to the Lord; equip believers to think biblically; spur fellowship in Christ; proclaim the gospel of sola fide; edify those who participate; and strengthen the local church

So with that said, let us continue on in this "conversation of faith" from the Word of God about everything pertaining to life and godliness. I am honored to engage with the many who frequent this blog... To God be the glory... amen?

I appreciate you all.
Steve
2 Cor. 4:5-7