what do you think?

[SolaSaint]

Can this forum or other Christian forums be bad for you? I find that often I spend more time reading and posting to threads on Christian forums than I do reading God's word. Do you do the same? If so should we refrain from the fellowship in here and spend more time in His word? I know it is different for everyone, but what about the mature Christian who has spent much time reading and studying scripture? Is it OK to spend more time on this forum than in the word?

 

[blackbird]

If we back away from our lives and look we will find that lack of Scripture reading and study is not limited to too much forum time

I mean---what did people do before computers and internet and forums came along?? What in their lives prevented them from spending enough time in study??

What about people who are not involved with any forums---or do not have the 'net for that matter?? Whats their excuse for not studying more??

When I was in seminary(when the 'net was just a puppy) certain students would brag on certain professors---"He reads 12 newspapers a day!"-----and I would think----"Mercy! He needs a job! He needs something to do! Don't his wife have him a Honey Do list or somethin'?----forums don't keep us away from the word---we do!!

 

[Salty]

I think the key word is moderation. Virtually anything could be excessive. - Even church attendance. I know many churches have something going on 7 days a week. If a person was there for every activity - where do they get the time to spend with family.

Reminds me of a story I heard about an evangelist. When preaching a revival, he would always go back home for Sat. Some would say he was not spiritual enough - but on the other hand, if he did not spend enough time with his family, and the wife were to divorce him, than some would say he was not spiritual enough.

Salty

 

[David Michael Harris]

Only thing I regret about forums, irc etc is sometimes you can say things a bit hastily and upset people or make a fool of yourself. Basically put your foot in it a bit.

I still like them though as it's a great way to communicate and can be very beneficial if all goes well, but that is not always the case.

Also, they supplement and not substitute my usual study of Scripture.

I live in the sticks a bit and it's always good to have a bit of extra fellowship.

 

[Jim1999]

If one wants to read scripture he will do it regardless of other activities....period!

Cheers,

Jim

 

[just-want-peace]

If one wants to read scripture he will do it regardless of other activities....period!

Cheers,

Jim

Gotta agree with Jim on this!

Basically you will do, as your priorities are.

 

[Jim1999]

David, I understand what you are saying. There is a very limited number of Christians where I live. The forums are an opportunity to discuss some things biblical with other believers. It is like another fellowship group.

Cheers,

Jim

 

[abcgrad94]

One's participation on a forum is not necessarily an indication of their spiritual commitment, although we do tend to make time for the things that are most important to us.

For example, there are times like today when I will be more active on a forum simply because I'm snowed in, or have health problems, etc.

One good rule of thumb for me is to have my time with God BEFORE I do anything else. Otherwise I am apt to get busy and forget.

 

[Johnv]

Can this forum or other Christian forums be bad for you?

Like anything else, it can be, depending on one's circumstances.

Is it OK to spend more time on this forum than in the word?

I would say no. If a person is spending a significant amount of time on the internet chatting on boards there is a deeper issue going on with that person that needs to be addressed.

 

[Jim1999]

Nothing can replace time spent in the scriptures.

Whether the forums are good or bad for you depends on how seriously you take them. Measure everything in the alance and see if the information is found wanting.

A lot of the arguments are just that; arguments. They take you nowhere and leave you there. Some offer sound advice.

Cheers,

Jim

 

[Jon-Marc]

Because of my poor eyesight (my right eye is useless for reading or much of anything else), I find I can read much better on the computer because of the lighted screen, but only with my left eye. Printed words in a book (even a large print Bible) is difficult for me to read. I can look up scripture and even read the entire Bible on my computer, or I can listen to it on my cassette tapes.

I read the Bible through several times when I was able to see it, and I've listened to it on tape several times. It's still difficult for me to see the print online, but it's better than trying to see the words in a book.